Ruud van Nistelrooy, born Rutgerus Johannes Martinus van Nistelrooij on 1 July 1976, is a Dutch professional football manager and former player who is currently managing Premier League club Leicester City. His illustrious career as a striker saw him play for several top-tier clubs including Manchester United and Real Madrid, earning him a reputation as one of the finest goal scorers of his generation.
Birth
1 July 1976
Ruud van Nistelrooy was born in Oss, Netherlands, marking the beginning of a life that would be deeply intertwined with football.
Early Career at Den Bosch
1993-1997
Van Nistelrooy started his professional football career at Den Bosch, playing in the Eerste Divisie. During his four-year tenure, he scored 17 goals in 69 appearances, laying the groundwork for his future success.
Heerenveen
1997-1998
He moved to Heerenveen in 1997, where he played in the Eredivisie and scored 13 goals in 31 appearances, further establishing himself as a promising young striker.
PSV Eindhoven
1998-2001
Van Nistelrooy joined PSV Eindhoven in 1998, where he became a prolific goal scorer, netting 62 goals in 67 appearances. His performances at PSV caught the attention of Manchester United.
Manchester United
2001-2006
In 2001, Van Nistelrooy moved to Manchester United for a then British record fee of £19 million. During his five-year stay, he scored 150 goals in 219 appearances, becoming one of the club's most successful strikers.
Real Madrid
2006-2010
Van Nistelrooy joined Real Madrid in 2006, where he continued to excel, scoring 46 goals in 68 appearances. He won La Liga twice during his time at the club.
Later Career and Retirement
2010-2012
After leaving Real Madrid, Van Nistelrooy played for Hamburger SV and Málaga before retiring in 2012, ending a remarkable playing career.
Appointment as Leicester City Manager
2024
Van Nistelrooy was appointed as the manager of Premier League club Leicester City, marking a new chapter in his career as a professional football manager.
Current Role
Present
As of 2025, Ruud van Nistelrooy continues to manage Leicester City, bringing his extensive experience and knowledge to the role.
