Ruud van Nistelrooy has revealed the Premier League manager he called immediately after Leicester City showed interest in appointing him.
The Dutchman took interim charge of Manchester United after Erik ten Hag was sacked by the Red Devils.
However, Van Nistelrooy left the club after Ruben Amorim opted against retaining him as part of his coaching staff.
On Friday evening, it was confirmed that Van Nistelrooy had been appointed new Leicester boss, replacing Steve Cooper.
An official statement read: "We are delighted to confirm the appointment of Ruud van Nistelrooy as Leicester City’s new First Team Manager.
"The 48-year-old Dutchman joins us with a wealth of experience at the highest level of the game, both as a player and a coach, and has agreed terms on a contract to June 2027."
Speaking during his first interview as Foxes boss, Van Nistelrooy revealed that he called Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca straightaway after Leicester's interest.
The 48-year-old said: "Everybody that I speak to about Leicester City Football Club is enthusiastic, has great stories about the quality of the people working at the club, the supporters, also of course, the recent history of the club is impressive. I’m dead excited to start and to get to know everyone and give everything I can for the football club.
"I have to say, when the interest came, the first one I called was Enzo. He was so positive about it. He absolutely loved his time. When you hear these things, it’s a club you want to be a part of."
Ruud van Nistelrooy has been named as Leicester City manager. Image: Getty
Ruud van Nistelrooy has been named as Leicester City manager. Image: Getty
Van Nistelrooy added: "Obviously, with the interest coming, I phoned him and I asked him more detailed questions about the club, the structures, the people that work there, the squad, the stadium, the fans, the town, the surroundings. It was a fantastic conversation. It’s always a pleasure to talk to him."
Maresca led Leicester back to the Premier League last season, which resulted in him being lured away from the King Power Stadium by Chelsea.
Van Nistelrooy's first match in charge will be next week's Premier League clash against West Ham United.
Get Sky Sports for £10 in 'cheapest ever' Black Friday TV package deal
This article contains affiliate links and LADbible Group might make a commission on anything purchased.
You can now get Sky Sports for the equivalent of just £10 in a Black Friday offer believed to be the cheapest price ever for the subscription service.
While Sky Sports isn't available as a standalone deal, it can be added to the new basic package (which is currently discounted to £19) for just £20 - bringing the total monthly fee to £39.
Given that Netflix is usually priced at £10, your Sky Sports package is the equivalent of just £10. But hurry, as the deal is set to end soon!