Leicester City, Ruud van Nistelrooy Mutually Agree to Part Ways

Leicester City and manager Ruud van Nistelrooy have mutually agreed to terminate their association, the club announced on Friday. This decision comes nine weeks after the team’s relegation from the Premier League.

Van Nistelrooy took over in November when Leicester City were in a difficult situation, positioned 16th in the league standings following Steve Cooper’s dismissal. The team concluded the season in 18th place.

The former Manchester United and Real Madrid forward began his tenure with a victory but struggled to revitalize Leicester’s performance, securing only five wins during his time as manager.

Leicester City released a statement on Friday confirming Van Nistelrooy’s departure, noting that the separation was amicable. The statement read, “Ruud oversaw a period of difficulty for the club. He departs with the respect and gratitude of everyone at the football club for his commitment and diligence. We wish him the very best in his future endeavors.”

Van Nistelrooy, celebrated as one of the Premier League’s finest strikers, previously guided PSV Eindhoven to a Dutch Cup victory as manager before joining Erik Ten Hag’s staff at Manchester United as an assistant coach.

Following Ten Hag’s departure, he also briefly served as interim coach at Old Trafford until Ruben Amorim was appointed as the new manager.

Van Nistelrooy conveyed his appreciation to the players and staff at Leicester City.

In a statement, Van Nistelrooy stated, “I would like to extend my sincere thanks to the Leicester City players, coaches, academy, and all the staff I worked alongside for their professionalism and dedication throughout my time with the club.”

Leicester City also mentioned that the first-team coaching staff will manage pre-season preparations until a new manager is appointed.