Manchester United legend Ruud van Nistelrooy has left Leicester City after just over six months in charge and the Reds icon has received a response from those connected to his old side
Former Leicester City manager Ruud van Nistelrooy looks on
Ruud van Nistelrooy has left Leicester City after just over six months in charge of the East Midlands club
Ruud van Nistelrooy has received a Manchester United response after leaving Leicester City.
The former Reds striker, assistant manager and interim manager joined Leicester after a brief period in charge of United last year following Erik ten Hag's sacking in October. The Reds went unbeaten during his four-game spell in charge with two wins over the Foxes, a victory over PAOK and a draw against Chelsea.
But the keys to Old Trafford on a permanent basis were handed to Ruben Amorim, and Van Nistelrooy left M16 shortly after the former Sporting boss was appointed in November. The Dutchman was not out of work for long, though, with Premier League relegation battlers Leicester turning to the ex-PSV Eindhoven boss.
It was hoped that Van Nistelrooy's arrival at the King Power Stadium would lead to a top-flight survival after his reasonably impressive spell at United for a brief period. But results continued to nosedive, and the Foxes were relegated to the Championship, finishing the 2024/25 season in 18th place, 13 points from safety.
Van Nistelrooy has subsequently left Leicester with his departure confirmed on Friday. And the 48-year-old has now sent a heartfelt message on his Instagram account to the East Midlands club.
"I would like to personally thank the @lcfc players, coaches, academy and all the staff I have worked with for their professionalism and dedication during my time at the club and to thank the fans for their support, and take this opportunity to wish the club well for the future," he said.
Van Nistelrooy's post has received several likes from those connected to United, including former Reds teammate Rio Ferdinand and current centre-back Lisandro Martinez.
Announcing his departure in a club statement, Leicester said: "Leicester City Football Club and Ruud van Nistelrooy have mutually agreed that Ruud’s contract with the Club as First Team Manager will terminate with immediate effect.
"Ruud has overseen a challenging period for the Club. From his appointment in November 2024, he approached the role with professionalism, integrity and a clear commitment to our aims, including through the integration of several promising players from the Club’s Academy into our First Team environment.
"Ruud moves on with the respect and thanks of everyone at the Football Club for his dedication and hard work, and with our very best wishes for the future."
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