No surprises here—it was hinted at a few days ago, and now it’s official: Ruud van Nistelrooy is the new manager of Leicester City. The Dutch coach arrives at the King Power Stadium after a four-month stint at Old Trafford, where he initially served on Erik ten Hag’s coaching staff. Following Ten Hag’s dismissal, Van Nistelrooy briefly took charge of Manchester United. Now, he replaces Steve Cooper on a long-term basis, having signed a contract through the summer of 2027.Ruud could find a new Premier League job less than three weeks after leaving Man UtdThis will be the 48-year-old Dutchman’s second independent managerial role. Previously, he managed PSV Eindhoven for the 2022/23 season, during which he won the domestic Cup and Super Cup. However, he stepped down from the role, citing a lack of support from the club’s board. During the June transfer window, he was among the candidates to replace Vincent Kompany at Burnley but opted to join his compatriot Ten Hag at Manchester United. While leading United, Van Nistelrooy managed four matches across all competitions, winning three—including two against Leicester, interestingly enough.“I’m excited and proud! Everyone I’ve spoken to about Leicester has been enthusiastic. They’ve spoken highly about the quality of people working at the club, the fans, and the club’s recent history is impressive! I can’t wait to get started, meet everyone, and give my all for this club,” Van Nistelrooy said during his unveiling.🦊 📸 pic.twitter.com/aM8zotqRBI— Leicester City (@LCFC) November 29, 2024 Leicester currently sits 16th in the Premier League table with 10 points after 12 games. The team has been struggling recently, earning just one point from their last four matches. Van Nistelrooy will aim to halt this slide starting on Tuesday against West Ham, as today’s trip to Brentford in London comes too soon for him to take charge.ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE – MATCHDAY 13Friday Brighton – Southampton 1-1 (1-0)/Mitoma 29 – Downes 59/Saturday 18.00: (1.67) Brentford (3.80) Leicester (5.30)18.00: (3.05) Crystal Palace (3.50) Newcastle (2.45)18.00: (1.80) Nott.Forest (3.70) Ipswich (5.00)18.00: (2.85) Wolverhampton (3.40) Bournemouth (2.45)20.30: (7.20) West Ham (4.75) Arsenal (1.48)Sunday 16.30: (1.75) Chelsea (4.10) Aston Villa (4.70)16.30: (1.53) Man.Utd. (4.10) Everton (6.50)16.30: (1.70) Tottenham (4.15) Fulham (4.50)19.00: (2.15) Liverpool (3.90) Man.City (3.25)***odds are subject to change***
