Ruud Van Nistelrooy Back at Man Utd as Erik ten Hag’s Assistant

Ruud van Nistelrooy has rejoined Manchester United as an assistant to manager Erik ten Hag in a significant coaching reshuffle. Van Nistelrooy enjoyed a successful stint as a striker at the club from 2001 to 2006, where he scored 150 goals and ranks 11th on the club’s all-time scoring list. A fallout with Sir Alex Ferguson led to his controversial departure. He recently managed PSV Eindhoven but resigned before the 2022-23 season due to player dissatisfaction with his coaching methods.

At 48, Van Nistelrooy has teamed up with Rene Hake, who left his position as Go Ahead Eagles boss to become another assistant manager. Both signed contracts running until 2026, aligning with Ten Hag’s recently extended contract. Ten Hag expressed his delight at the new additions, believing their extensive experience, knowledge, and fresh energy will elevate the team’s performance. Mitchell van der Gaag, Ten Hag’s former assistant, left to pursue managerial opportunities, marking another change in the coaching reshuffle.

The club also saw the departure of forwards coach Benni McCarthy. Meanwhile, Steve McClaren remains as the senior first-team coach, and former Scotland and United midfielder Darren Fletcher transitioned into a first-team coaching role from his previous position as technical director, a role now filled by Jason Wilcox. Manchester United’s broader changes include appointing Dan Ashworth as sporting director last week, and confirming Omar Berrada as chief executive on Saturday.

Ashworth emphasized the importance of refreshing the coaching staff to strengthen all areas of the men’s first team operations. He welcomed Ruud van Nistelrooy back to the club, confident that both he and Hake will instill a winning mentality and high standards within the team. Ten Hag believes that these changes will build on the achievements of the past two years and elevate the team to the next level.