Manchester United legend Ruud van Nistelrooy has accepted a job with the Netherlands national team after missing out on the interim role at Old Trafford.
Van Nistelrooy, one of the most prolific strikers in the club’s history, returned to Manchester to join Erik ten Hag’s coaching staff in 2024, stepping into lead the team after the Dutchman’s dismissal.
The 49-year-old guided to United to three wins and one draw before Ruben Amorim was brought in as new head coach.
Van Nistelrooy left United shortly after, taking over at Leicester City but left the following summer after failing to keep the Foxes up.
Following Amorim’s dismissal last week, Darren Fletcher was placed in temporary charge while director of football Jason Wilcox led the charge for an interim boss to lead the side until the end of the season.
Van Nistelrooy was interviewed for the role, along with former manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
Michael Carrick was given the nod, however, set to take charge of his first game against Manchester City on Saturday.
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The former United striker has swiftly moved on however, taking on the role of assistant coach under Ronald Koeman. He will begin that role on 1 February with immediate focus on the World Cup this summer.
It will be van Nistelrooy’s third stint with the Dutch side.
‘Coming back to the Dutch national team in this capacity is both a great honor and an exciting challenge,’ van Nistelrooy said.
‘Doing so alongside this staff and a highly talented squad, and at a World Cup no less, makes it especially meaningful.
‘Having worked in different roles, including as an assistant, I am confident this position fits me well. I look forward to making a valuable contribution and helping ensure a successful tournament.’
