Manchester United Welcomes Van Nistelrooy as Assistant Manager
Manchester United has officially announced the return of Ruud van Nistelrooy as the new assistant manager to Erik ten Hag.
Key Highlights
- Ruud van Nistelrooy rejoins Manchester United as assistant manager.
- Rene Hake also appointed as an assistant to Ten Hag.
- Mitchell van der Gaag and Benni McCarthy depart from their roles.
Van Nistelrooy’s Homecoming
Ruud van Nistelrooy, who netted an impressive 150 goals in 219 appearances for United during a stellar five-year stint in the mid-2000s, is back at Old Trafford. After hanging up his boots, Van Nistelrooy embarked on a coaching career and most recently managed PSV Eindhoven until 2023.
United confirmed Van Nistelrooy’s return on Thursday, alongside the appointment of former Go Ahead Eagles manager Rene Hake as an assistant to Ten Hag. This restructuring sees Mitchell van der Gaag and Benni McCarthy leaving the club, although Steve McClaren and Darren Fletcher will remain part of the coaching staff.
Ten Hag’s Statement
“I am delighted that Rene and Ruud have agreed to join our project, bringing a wealth of experience, knowledge, and new energy to the staff,” Ten Hag told the club’s channels. “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.”
Ten Hag also acknowledged the departures, adding, “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.”
Strategic Enhancements
Sporting director Dan Ashworth commented, “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.”
Conclusion
Ruud van Nistelrooy’s return to Manchester United marks a significant addition to Erik ten Hag’s coaching team. As United aims to build on recent successes, the expertise and passion of Van Nistelrooy and Hake are expected to play crucial roles in the club’s ambitions for the future.