Ruud van Nistelrooy has finally left Leicester after weeks of silence about his future.
His long-expected departure was belatedly confirmed on Friday morning, over nine weeks on from the Foxes’ relegation from the Premier League.
Van Nistelrooy, 48, took charge of 27 matches but oversaw just five wins and 19 defeats, and his side’s fate was sealed with five games of the season remaining.
The club said the termination of his contract was decided by mutual consent before praising his ‘professionalism, integrity and clear commitment’. They added that Van Nistelrooy ‘moves on with respect and thanks of everyone’.
Former Everton and Burnley boss Sean Dyche is understood to be waiting in the wings while Sheffield Wednesday’s Danny Rohl has also been linked with the job.
Van Nistelrooy replaced Steve Cooper in late November and signed a deal until 2027, but the Foxes’ form nosedived, resulting in their relegation being rubberstamped on April 20 after a 1-0 defeat by Liverpool, a ninth home loss in a row without scoring.
‘I would like to personally thank the Leicester 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,’ Van Nistelrooy said in a statement.
He was appointed at the King Power Stadium less than a month after leaving his role as an assistant coach at Manchester United. Van Nistelrooy also enjoyed a successful spell in interim charge following Erik ten Hag’s dismissal last October.
More to follow.
