Ruud van Nistelrooy is back at Man Utd! Legendary striker returns to Old Trafford as Erik ten Hag's assistant along with fellow Dutchman Rene Hake

The much-loved striker returns to the Red Devils for the first time since departing in 2006. He is part of Ten Hag's restructuring of his coaching staff after signing a new contract until 2026. Van Nistelrooy and fellow Dutchman Rene Hake have signed two-year deals.

"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," said the United manager. "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."

United's sporting director Dan Ashworth added: "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 had a successful stint at PSV but left the club last year. He turned down the chance to become head coach of Burnley in order to link up with Ten Hag, who clung on to his role as United boss after the club spoke to alternative candidates including Thomas Tuchel following the team's worst ever Premier League finish. Hake has known Ten Hag for almost two decades, first working together at Twente. His last job was with Eredivisie side Go Ahead Eagles. Steve McLaren and Darren Fletcher will remain a part of Ten Hag's staff although Mitchell van der Gaag has left to resume his career as a head coach and Benni McCarthy has also departed.

Van Nistelrooy remains one of United's best strikers of all-time. He scored 150 goals in all competitions between 2001 and 2006, winning the Premier League, FA Cup and League Cup. However, he had an acrimonious departure, falling out with Sir Alex Ferguson following a disagreement with Cristiano Ronaldo on the training ground.

The United players who were not involved in Euro 2024 or the Copa America have begun pre-season training and are preparing for their first friendly against Rosenborg in Trondheim, Norway, on Monday. The Red Devils begin the new Premier League season at home to Fulham on August 16.