Manchester United’s rebuild under Erik ten Hag takes a significant step forward with the arrivals of Ruud van Nistelrooy and Rene Hake.
The former United striker, a proven goalscorer in his playing days, brings his attacking expertise to bolster Ten Hag’s backroom staff. Joining him is Hake, who enjoyed a successful season managing Dutch Eredivisie outfit Go Ahead Eagles.
The duo replaces departing coaches Mitchell van der Gaag and Benni McCarthy, marking a shift in the coaching personnel as Ten Hag looks to implement his philosophy at Old Trafford.
Van Nistelrooy Joins Man United Coaching Team: What did Erik ten Hag Say?
Besides the new additions, Steve McClaren and Darren Fletcher will continue to be part of Erik ten Hag’s coaching set-up, as the Dutchman confirmed in a statement:
“I am delighted that Rene and Ruud have agreed to join our project, adding a wealth of experience, knowledge and new energy to the staff.
“Now is a good time to refresh the coaching team as we look to build on the achievements of the past two years and push to the next level.”
Van Nistelrooy: Coaching Profile
Ruud van Nistelrooy, a fans’ favourite from his five-year spell at Old Trafford where he netted 150 goals in just 219 games, returns to the club after managing PSV Eindhoven in the 2022-23 season.
He was even in talks with Burnley before United successfully brought him back. The 48-year-old is expected to follow in Benni McCarthy’s footsteps and work closely with United’s forwards, while Rene Hake will act as Ten Hag’s number two.
Like Ten Hag, 52-year-old Rene Hake has managed both Go Ahead Eagles and Utrecht in his coaching career. Last season, he guided Go Ahead Eagles to their best Eredivisie finish in over 15 years, securing a ninth-place finish.
What did Ten Hag Say About His Outgoing Coaching Team Members?
“Mitchell has decided that now is the right time for him to pursue his own ambitions in a number one position,” the former Ajax boss said.
I want to pay tribute to his fantastic service over the past two years, and also to Benni for his important contributions. We send them our thanks and best wishes for the future.”
What’s Next for Manchester United?
Manchester United are jetting off across the Atlantic this summer for their pre-season tour ahead of the 2024-25 season.
The Red Devils kick things off against Arsenal at the SoFi Stadium on July 27th. They’ll then face Real Betis at the Snapdragon Stadium on July 31st, before concluding their tour against rivals Liverpool at the Williams-Brice Stadium on August 3rd.
But before their US adventure, Ten Hag’s men will get some warm-up matches under their belts with friendlies against Rosenborg in Norway on July 15th and Rangers in Scotland on July 20th.
Since they won the FA Cup, Manchester United will face rivals and Premier League holders Manchester City in the Community Shield on Saturday, August 10th at 3pm BST.
With a week between that and their final pre-season game, United then open their Premier League campaign against Fulham on Friday, August 16th at 8pm BST.
