Ruud van Nistelrooy first words as new job confirmed and Man United reunion date set

Manchester United legend Ruud van Nistelrooy has spoken for the first time since he was appointed as the new Leicester City manager.

The 48-year-old, who left United earlier this month after winning three of his four games in charge as interim head coach, has replaced Steve Cooper at the King Power Stadium. Leicester confirmed Van Nistelrooy's appointment at 7pm on Friday evening ahead of their trip to Brentford on Saturday.

However, Van Nistelrooy will have to wait for his first game in the Leicester dugout with caretaker manager Ben Dawson set to take charge against the Bees. It means that the Dutchman's first taste of Premier League football as a permanent manager will be at home on Tuesday against West Ham.

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The Dutchman will have a little bit of a wait on his hands before his is reunited with Manchester United, though, with the two clubs set to next face each other on March 15, 2025.

Speaking following his appointment as the new Leicester manager, Van Nistelrooy told the club's website: "I’m proud, I’m excited. Everybody that I speak to about Leicester City Football Club is enthusiastic.

"They have great stories about the quality of the people working at the club, the supporters and, of course, the recent history of the club is impressive. I’m excited to start and to get to know everyone and give everything I can for the football club.

"It’s also something I hear a lot about. I can’t wait to find that out, to be part of the Club, in a manager role, which is a big responsibility. I take it very seriously. Also, getting to know everybody, the community and the supporters, I can