Ruud van Nistelrooy, a former player, has joined Erik ten Hag’s coaching team, Manchester United has confirmed.
Together with Rene Hake, the renowned Dutch icon, who represented Manchester United from 2001 to 2006, will take on the role of assistant manager for the team until June 2026.
“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,” Ten Hag told the club’s official website.
“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.”
Dan Ashworth said: “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.”
Van Nistelrooy, who scored 150 goals in 219 games for United between 2000 and 2006, is on his way back to Old Trafford.
Van Nistelrooy began his coaching career as an assistant for the Netherlands national team after retiring in 2012, and he progressed via the PSV Eindhoven academy system.
After winning the Johan Cruyff Shield and the KNVB Cup as PSV’s head coach in 2022–2023, he left the Dutch team in May 2023.
