Ruud van Nistelrooy set to lead Leicester: A bold gamble to revive Premier League hopes

Following the recent dismissal of Steve Cooper, Ruud van Nistelrooy has emerged as the most likely candidate to become the new head coach of Leicester City.

Sports News Blitz writer Noah Ngcobo gives insight into why the Dutchman is a good pick for the Foxes who are looking to revitalise their Premier League campaign.

Leicester to announce Cooper replacement soon

Leicester City are on the verge of appointing Ruud van Nistelrooy as their new manager, just weeks after his departure from Manchester United.

The decision comes as the Foxes look to steer their Premier League campaign back on track following a disappointing start to the season that saw Steve Cooper dismissed after only five months in charge.

Leicester currently sit precariously at 16th on the table, just one point above the relegation zone, necessitating swift action to stabilise their fortunes.

Positive impression

Ruud Van Nistelrooy, a Premier League legend from his time as a prolific striker for Manchester United, brings an impressive résumé to the King Power Stadium.

His managerial journey includes a successful stint at PSV Eindhoven, where he clinched the KNVB Cup during the 2022-23 season, and a UEFA Pro License, which underscores his credentials.

While serving as interim manager at Manchester United earlier this season, Van Nistelrooy demonstrated his tactical prowess by securing two victories over Leicester, showcasing his potential to deliver results under pressure. 

Leicester's management, led by chairman Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha and director of football John Rudkin, acted decisively to secure Van Nistelrooy’s services.

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Best of the batch

The club reportedly considered other candidates, including Graham Potter, David Moyes, Niko Kovac, and Carlos Corberan, but ultimately opted for the Dutchman due to his availability and reputation for building strong relationships with his squads.

This quality is seen as vital for reconnecting with Leicester's players and fans alike, especially after a turbulent managerial carousel that included short-lived tenures for Brendan Rodgers, Dean Smith, and Steve Cooper. 

Van Nistelrooy’s imminent arrival also reflects a deliberate strategy by Leicester to prioritise managerial stability.

Van Nistelrooy gained experience as an assistant coach with the Netherlands, with Euro 2020 experience under his belt. The Dutchman also guided United to an unbeaten run during his interim spell.

As such, he is viewed as someone capable of revitalising the Foxes and fostering cohesion within the team.

A shift in focus

Interestingly, Van Nistelrooy was not retained by Ruben Amorim, Manchester United’s newly appointed head coach, as part of his backroom staff.

This decision could work in Leicester’s favour, as the Dutchman can not shift his entire focus to his own managerial career rather than serving as an assistant.

While some might have questioned why Amorim didn’t retain Van Nistelrooy, this move may benefit the latter, who is now set to take on a leadership role befitting his ambitions. 

As the Foxes prepare for their upcoming clash against Brentford, Van Nistelrooy’s appointment is expected to bring fresh energy and tactical discipline to a side in need of a turnaround.

His arrival has been met with optimism, both for his proven capabilities and the connection he can build with Leicester's squad and supporters.

For a club desperate to avoid relegation and regain their Premier League footing, Van Nistelrooy might just be the figure to lead the charge.

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