Leicester City have appointed Ruud van Nistelrooy as their new manager, replacing Steve Cooper. Van Nistelrooy joins the Foxes on a contract until June 2027.

What happened?

The Dutchman's appointment comes after Cooper's sacking last Sunday. Van Nistelrooy said: “I’m proud, I’m excited. Everybody that I speak to about Leicester City Football Club is enthusiastic.”

Why it matters for Leicester City

The team is currently 23rd in the Championship, with 46 points from 46 games, and a recent form of WDDLL. | Category | Stat | | --- | --- | | League standing | 23rd | | Points | 46 | | Recent form | WDDLL |

What comes next?

Van Nistelrooy will arrive in the UK in time for the team's Championship trip to Brentford on Saturday. He will assume his full responsibilities from Sunday. Van Nistelrooy's experience and winning mentality will undoubtedly bring great value to the team, according to Club Chairman Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha.

As of 29 Jun 2026, Leicester City are 49 points behind leaders Coventry, with 58 goals scored and 68 conceded, resulting in a -10 goal difference. The team will be looking to turn around their fortunes under Van Nistelrooy's leadership.