Ruud van Nistelrooy has returned to Manchester United to become assistant manager to boss Erik ten Hag as part of a coaching reshuffle.
The Dutch former striker spent five years at Old Trafford as a player between 2001 and 2006, scoring 150 goals in 219 appearances and winning the Premier League in 2002-03.
Van Nistelrooy, 48, has been out of work since leaving PSV Eindhoven at the end of the 2022-23 season shortly after winning the Dutch Cup.
He is joined by fellow Dutchman Rene Hak, who has quit his role as manager of Go Ahead Eagles.
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.”
Welcome on board, Rene and Ruud! 🤝#MUFC
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) July 11, 2024
Ten Hag’s former assistant Mitchell van der Gaag has left United to pursue managerial opportunities, while forward coach Benni McCarthy has also departed.
Steve McClaren remains as senior first-team coach with Darren Fletcher switching to a first-team coaching role from his previous role as technical director, which is now occupied by Jason Wilcox.
A summer of overhaul under Jim Ratcliffe and IEOS has seen Dan Ashworth begin his role as sporting director, while the confirmation of Omar Berrada as chief executive is set to be confirmed in the coming days.
Manager Ten Hag recently signed a new two-year contract to remain in charge after winning the FA Cup in his second season.
“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,” said Ashworth.
“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.”
