Ruud van Nistelrooy returns to Manchester United - What's his coaching experience?

Ruud van Nistelrooy has officially returned to Manchester United as their assistant manager. It comes as part of Erik ten Hag's contract renewal, where he was tasked with appointing some new members of the backroom staff.

Make no mistake about it, Manchester United fans, Ruud van Nistelrooy will be alongside Erik ten Hag at the front and centre of the decision-making. He is dubbed by many as the best possible right-hand man for Erik ten Hag, particularly during this significant rebuild period. He does know the club like the back of his hand, after all.

But where exactly has Ruud van Nistelrooy been since he hung up his boots professionally? Well, this isn't his first rodeo in management or coaching. Here's a detailed look at Ruud van Nistelrooy's managerial experience...

Ruud van Nistelrooy returns to Manchester United - What's his coaching experience?

PSV

Ruud van Nistelrooy began his coaching career with the PSV under-17s team. He was initially an intern coach when he first joined in 2013 but then he impressed to the point of becoming the striker coach for the under-17s, 19s and reserve team in 2016.

Fast forward two years, Ruud van Nistelrooy was appointed as the manager of PSV under-19s, leading a squad of players who he had worked closely with, albeit there were natural some changes to the faces.

He really did work his way to the top in the PSV backroom, as Ruud van Nistelrooy's next step was to become the PSV head coach. He achieved this title in 2022. He signed a three year contract as head coach but he only completed one season. This was through no fault of his own, though, as he won the Johan Cruyff Shield and KNVB cup in his first season. He stepped down himself.

Netherlands

Van Nistelrooy also has experience of working behind the scenes of the Netherlands international team. He was first appointed to assist Guus Hiddink in 2014 but he also helped out Ronald Koeman as assistant manager in 2019.

Manchester United

Now, Ruud van Nistelrooy is excited to add Manchester United to his managerial CV. Despite having head coach experience, it is not a step down for him to join Erik ten Hag as assistant manager. In fact, it is an excellent opportunity to hone his craft even more and his personality as a leader will hopefully transcend from him and onto the players.