Struggling Premier League side sets to announce Ruud van Nistelrooy as new manager
Credit: Getty Images/Robbie Jay Barratt
Ruud van Nistelrooy is on the brink of making a swift return to the Premier League, with Leicester City in advanced talks to appoint the former Manchester United star as their new manager.
Van Nistelrooy is expected to replace Steve Cooper, who was dismissed by Leicester after a 2-1 defeat to Chelsea on Sunday.
The 48-year-old has emerged as the frontrunner for the role, having recently left his position at PSV Eindhoven and with no compensation due following his brief stint at Manchester United, where he served as interim manager after Erik ten Hag’s departure.
Van Nistelrooy’s managerial experience includes guiding PSV Eindhoven to a KNVB Cup victory in the 2022-23 season, and his time at Old Trafford saw him defeat Cooper’s Leicester twice in both the Carabao Cup and Premier League.
Leicester, currently 16th in the Premier League, have been exploring various managerial options but are likely to appoint the Dutchman ahead of their match against Brentford on Saturday.
Other potential candidates, such as Graham Potter and David Moyes, have been ruled out, leaving Van Nistelrooy as the club’s top choice.
Despite concerns that his appointment could be a gamble, his managerial credentials, including his role as an assistant coach for the Netherlands at Euro 2020, suggest he is ready for the challenge.
Leicester, who are struggling near the relegation zone, will face a tough run of fixtures before Christmas, including matches against West Ham, Brighton, Newcastle, Wolves, Liverpool, and Manchester City
