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Ruud van Nistelrooy has returned to Manchester United to become an assistant to manager Erik ten Hag as part of a coaching reshuffle.<\/b><\/p>\n
Van Nistelrooy enjoyed five prolific seasons as a striker at the club after joining in 2001.<\/p>\n
The Dutchman scored 150 goals, putting him 11th on the club\u2019s all-time list but left in controversial circumstances after falling out with Sir Alex Ferguson.<\/p>\n
He has been out of work since quitting as PSV Eindhoven manager just before the end of the 2022-23 season after he had won the Dutch Cup, with players unhappy with his coaching methods.<\/p>\n
The 48-year-old is joined as assistant manager by Rene Hake, who has quit his role as Go Ahead Eagles boss.<\/p>\n
The pair have signed contracts to 2026, a week after Ten Hag extended his own stay at United to the same point.<\/p>\n
“I am delighted Rene and Ruud have agreed to join our project, adding a wealth of experience, knowledge and new energy to the staff,” said Ten Hag.<\/p>\n
“Now is a good time to refresh the coaching team as we look to build on the achievements of the past two years and push to the next level.”<\/p>\n
Ten Hag’s previous assistant Mitchell van der Gaag – who is keen to pursue managerial opportunities – has left United, as has forwards coach Benni McCarthy.<\/p>\n
Steve McClaren remains as senior first-team coach, while former Scotland and United midfielder Darren Fletcher moves into a first-team coaching role, having previously been technical director, the position Jason Wilcox now fills.<\/p>\n
It is part of the huge change that led to Dan Ashworth’s appointment as sporting director last week, with Omar Berrada to be confirmed as chief executive this Saturday.<\/p>\n
“Together with Erik, we are working to strengthen all areas of our men\u2019s first team operations, and refreshing the coaching staff is an important part of that,” said Ashworth.<\/p>\n
“It’s a particular pleasure to welcome Ruud back to the club where he enjoyed so much success as a player, and I know that he and Rene will help reinforce the winning mentality and high standards we are aiming for.”<\/p>\n<\/div>\n