Manchester United have announced that former striker Ruud van Nistelrooy has returned to Old Trafford as an assistant manager to Erik ten Hag.
Van Nistelrooy played for the Red Devils for five years between 2001-2006. He scored a whopping 150 goals across 219 games for the club. But since hanging up his boots, the Dutchman has pursued a career in coaching. He was most recently the manager of PSV Eindhoven, but he left the club in 2023, citing a lack of support.
But he is now back at United as an assistant coach, with the Red Devils confirming Van Nistelrooy’s return on Thursday. Former Go Ahead Eagles manager Rene Hake is also joining Ten Hag as an assistant coach. Their arrivals mean that Mitchell van der Gaag and former United player and fellow club legend Benni McCarthy are no longer at the club. However, Steve McClaren and Darren Fletcher will remain part of the coaching setup.
Speaking after the duo’s arrival was confirmed, United manager Erik ten Hag said,
“I am delighted that Rene and Ruud have agreed to join our project, adding a wealth of experience, knowledge and new energy to the staff. Now is a good time to refresh the coaching team as we look to build on the achievements of the past two years and push to the next level,” he told United club channels.
“Mitchell has decided that now is the right time for him to pursue his own ambitions in a number one position; I want to pay tribute to his fantastic service over the past two years and also to Benni for his important contributions. We send them our thanks and best wishes for the future.”
Sporting director Dan Ashworth added: “Together with Erik, we are working to strengthen all areas of our men’s first-team operations, and refreshing the coaching staff is an important part of that.
“It’s a particular pleasure to welcome Ruud back to the club where he enjoyed so much success as a player, and I know that he and Rene will help reinforce the winning mentality and high standards we are aiming for.”
WHAT TOP SIX FOOTBALL THINKS
Man United have shown that they mean business this summer with a series of personnel changes. Van Nistelrooy was a top striker in his day and will be looking to impact the club’s forward line.
It remains to be seen if he will be able to transfer his genius to the likes of Marcus Rashford and Rasmus Hojlund.
