Ronald Koeman has bolstered his Dutch national team coaching staff ahead of the 2026 World Cup by appointing Ruud van Nistelrooy as the third assistant coach, joining Erwin Koeman and Wim Jonk.
Van Nistelrooy, 49, had an illustrious playing career for the Netherlands, earning 70 caps and scoring 35 goals. He previously served as an assistant coach for the national team in 2014–2015 and again during the rescheduled 2021 European Championship under Frank de Boer.
Since then, Van Nistelrooy has taken on several managerial roles, including head coach at PSV, assistant and briefly interim manager at Manchester United, and head coach at Leicester City. His tenure at Leicester ended with relegation in June 2025, leaving him without a club until now.
Speaking on his return, Van Nistelrooy said, “Rejoining the Dutch national team and working alongside this staff with such talented players is a great honor and an exciting challenge. With my experience in various roles, including as an assistant, I feel well-suited for this position.”
Koeman expressed confidence in the former striker’s appointment, stating, “Ruud brings his own style and football vision to our staff. He understands the game at the highest level and adds valuable tournament experience as both a player and a coach.”
Van Nistelrooy will officially join the national team immediately and is expected to be on the bench for the upcoming international fixtures in March.