Manchester United legend Ruud van Nistelrooy named Red Devils’ new coach

Manchester United has appointed Rene Hake and Ruud van Nistelrooy as assistant managers of the men’s first team, to work under Erik ten Hag until June 2026.

The lethal former striker returns to the Red Devils for the first time since departing in 2006 as part of Erik ten Hag’s restructuring of his coaching staff after signing a new contract which also runs through to 2026. 

Van Nistelrooy had a successful stint at PSV Eindhoven but left the club last year. He turned down the chance to become head coach of Burnley in order to link up with Ten Hag, who clung on to his role as Manchester United head coach after the club spoke to alternative candidates including Thomas Tuchel following the team’s worst ever Premier League finish.

Van Nistelrooy is universally considered as one of Manchester United’s best strikers of all-time, having bagged 150 goals in all competitions between 2001 and 2006. During his five-year spell at the club, he won the Premier League, FA Cup and League Cup. However,

Hake has known Ten Hag for almost two decades, first working together at FC Twente. His last job was with Eredivisie side Go Ahead Eagles.

WHAT THE BIG BOSSES AT THE CLUB HAD TO SAY

Commenting on the two new additions to the Manchester United coaching staff, 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.”

Dan Ashworth, in his capacity as sporting director at Manchester United, 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.” 

BENNI MCCARTHY AND CO LEAVE MANCHESTER UNITED

Steve McClaren and Darren Fletcher remain key parts of the staff as senior first-team coach and first-team coach, respectively. Mitchell van der Gaag and Benni McCarthy have left Manchester United. 

Ten Hag added: “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.”