Man United confirm return of club legend on two-year deal. Man United have confirmed the appointment of Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake as assistant managers to Erik ten Hag as several changes are made to the Dutch coach’s staff at Old Trafford.
Manchester United have announced the appointment of Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake as assistant managers to Erik ten Hag, introducing significant changes to the coaching staff at Old Trafford.
The club confirmed on Thursday that the Dutch duo has officially joined the Premier League team, aiming to contribute to a more successful season following a disappointing previous campaign.
Despite finishing eighth in the Premier League and at the bottom of their Champions League group last season, Erik ten Hag remains in his position, partly thanks to United’s FA Cup triumph, which has afforded him more time to improve the team.
During the summer, Ten Hag sought to revamp his coaching staff, resulting in the signings of van Nistelrooy and Hake on contracts extending until 2026.
Manchester United also announced that Steve McClaren will continue as senior first-team coach and Darren Fletcher will remain as first-team coach. However, Mitchell van der Gaag and Benni McCarthy have departed the club.
Erik ten Hag expressed his enthusiasm about the new appointments, stating, “I am thrilled that Rene and Ruud have joined our project. They bring a wealth of experience, knowledge, and fresh energy to our staff. This is the perfect time to rejuvenate our coaching team as we aim to build on our past successes and reach new heights.”
Ruud van Nistelrooy, who has been out of coaching since leaving PSV Eindhoven in 2023, is eager to advance his career alongside Ten Hag at Manchester United. His return to Old Trafford is particularly notable, as the former striker left the club in 2006 to join Real Madrid after a highly successful Premier League career with United, where he won numerous trophies.
Van Nistelrooy made 219 appearances for Manchester United, scoring 150 goals and providing 30 assists. His return has excited fans, who hope he can replicate his past success and contribute to the team’s future achievements.
