Leicester City wasted no time in appointing Ruud van Nistelrooy as their new manager following the sacking of Steve Cooper, with the Dutchman revealing that former Foxes boss Enzo Maresca played a crucial role in his decision to take the job.
Cooper’s reign lasted just 14 games, with only two Premier League wins to his name. His tenure came to an end following a narrow 2-1 defeat to Chelsea, where Maresca, now Chelsea’s head coach, oversaw proceedings from the opposing dugout.
Leicester acted swiftly, unveiling Van Nistelrooy as their new manager on Friday evening, much to the delight of fans.
Van Nistelrooy’s High Praise for Maresca
In his first interview with the club, Van Nistelrooy expressed his excitement about the new role and revealed how Maresca, who guided Leicester to promotion from the Championship in 2023/24, influenced his decision.
Speaking to the club’s official website, the former Manchester United striker shared details of his conversation with the Italian.
“I have to say, when the interest came, the first one I called was Enzo. He was so positive about it. He absolutely loved his time. When you hear these things, it’s a club you want to be a part of,” Van Nistelrooy said.
“Obviously, with the interest coming, I phoned him and I asked him more detailed questions about the Club, the structures, the people that work there, the squad, the stadium, the fans, the town, the surroundings… it was a fantastic conversation. It’s always a pleasure to talk to him.”
First Message to the Fans
Van Nistelrooy also took the opportunity to address Leicester’s fans, describing his enthusiasm for working with the club and sharing his admiration for Jamie Vardy, the club’s top scorer.
The new manager’s first game in charge is set for December 3rd against West Ham United. However, Van Nistelrooy will not lead the team in Saturday’s clash with Brentford, as interim coach Craig Dawson takes the reins.
Looking Ahead to a Fresh Start
Speaking about his upcoming managerial debut at the King Power Stadium, Van Nistelrooy said: “I’m looking forward to that. The preparation will be short for the West Ham game, but we’ll get to know each other and get our focus on the West Ham game at home.
“It’s a new start and something to look forward to. When the connection is made at King Power Stadium, then we’ll know what can happen there.
“You start to play with 11 and then you go to 12, you get the extra bit there, and it’s something which is vital in this period for the Football Club.”
Van Nistelrooy’s appointment marks a new chapter for Leicester City, with fans eager to see how the Dutchman’s expertise and vision will shape the club’s future.
