Leicester have named Manchester United legend Ruud van Nistelrooy as their new manager, penning a contract until the summer of 2027.
It comes days after the Dutchman was beaten to the Coventry job by Frank Lampard, who has signed as the Sky Blues’ new head coach.
Van Nistelrooy had quickly become Leicester’s top choice to succeed Steve Cooper, who was axed earlier this week following a 2-1 defeat to Chelsea.
Graham Potter had been the club’s priority but the former Brighton and Blues boss was not keen on the vacancy.
Ruud van Nistelrooy has been appointed as Leicester manager
PA
Van Nistelrooy recently took interim charge of United after the sacking of Erik ten Hag, overseeing four matches in charge.
He helped the club to three victories and a draw – a 1-1 against Chelsea.
Two of Van Nistelrooy’s wins came against the Foxes – getting the better of them in the Premier League and the Carabao Cup.
“I’m proud, I’m excited,” said the 48-year-old.
“Everybody that I speak to about Leicester City is enthusiastic.
“They have great stories about the quality of the people working at the club, the supporters and, of course, the recent history of the club is impressive.
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“I’m excited to start and to get to know everyone and give everything I can for the football club.”
Van Nistelrooy returned to England in the summer as part of Ten Hag’s backroom staff at United.
He will replace Cooper, who was only appointed head coach of Leicester in the summer.
The Welshman was axed earlier this week, having been in charge for only 12 Premier League matches.
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Steve Cooper was sacked by Leicester after 12 Premier League matches in charge
Reuters
The former striker’s only other role in senior management was with PSV Eindhoven, who he helped finish second in the Eredivisie in 2022/23.
He is best remembered for his five-year spell at Old Trafford, where he scored 150 goals in 219 appearances.
During his time at United, he won the Premier League in 2003, the FA Cup in 2004 and the League Cup in 2006 before joining Real Madrid in that summer.
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Ruud van Nistelrooy impressed Leicester chiefs in his brief stint in charge of United
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The former Netherlands international then spent four years at the Bernabeu, where he netted 64 times in 96 appearances before injuries derailed his latter years at the club.
Leicester City chairman, Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha, said: “Ruud’s experience, knowledge, and winning mentality will undoubtedly bring great value to us, and we look forward to supporting him in achieving success for our fans and our club.”