By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
@GettyImages.
Former Manchester United forward Ruud van Nistelrooy has been appointed as the new manager of Leicester City, the Premier League club announced on Friday.
The Dutchman replaces Steve Cooper, who was sacked last weekend after just 12 Premier League matches in charge of the Foxes.
He has signed a contract until June 2027 at the King Power Stadium.
Van Nistelrooy’s appointment comes two weeks after he left his role as interim head coach at Manchester United following Ruben Amorim’s arrival.
“I’m proud, I’m excited,” Van Nistelrooy, 48, said.
“Everybody that I speak to about Leicester City is enthusiastic. They have great stories about the quality of the people working at the club, the supporters and, of course, the recent history of the club is impressive.
“I’m excited to start and to get to know everyone and give everything I can for the football club.”
Van Nistelrooy’s first game in charge will be against West Ham United on Tuesday.
“It is my pleasure to welcome Ruud to Leicester City,” chairman Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha said. “He joins a club with a rich history, passionate supporters, and a talented squad, and we are all excited to see the impact he can have as we embark on this new chapter together.
“Ruud’s experience, knowledge, and winning mentality will undoubtedly bring great value to us, and we look forward to supporting him in achieving success for our fans and our club.”
Van Nistelrooy oversaw three wins and one draw during his four-game stint in charge at United, with two of the victories coming against Leicester in the Premier League and Carabao Cup.
Leicester are 16th in the Premier League, one point above the relegation zone, and go to Brentford on Saturday.