Man Utd confirm two new signings as familiar face back at Old Trafford again

Manchester United have confirmed that Rene Hake and Ruud van Nistelrooy have joined the club as Erik ten Hag’s new assistant coaches. The duo have each signed two-year deals, mirroring the length of the new contract Ten Hag was given earlier this summer.

Hake joins the Red Devils from Go Ahead Eagles, who finished ninth in the Eredivisie under his guidance last season. He previously worked alongside Ten Hag during his time at Twente and will be hoping to rekindle their successful partnership at Old Trafford when the new campaign gets underway.

Van Nistelrooy, meanwhile, returns to United after spending a year out of work following his decision to step down as head coach at PSV Eindhoven. He famously led the line for the Red Devils between 2001 and 2006, scoring 150 goals from 219 appearances in all competitions.

In an official United statement, Ten Hag said: “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.”

United’s new sporting director Dan Ashworth added: “Together with Erik, we are working to strengthen all areas of our men’s first-team operations and refreshing the coaching staff is an important part of that.

“It’s a particular pleasure to welcome Ruud back to the club where he enjoyed so much success as a player, and I know that he and Rene will help reinforce the winning mentality and high standards we are aiming for.”

United have also confirmed the departures of Mitchell van der Gaag and Benni McCarthy, while Steve McClaren and Darren Fletcher remain at Old Trafford in their roles as first-team coaches.

“Mitchell has decided that now is the right time for him to pursue his own ambitions in a number one position,” added Ten Hag. “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.”

Ten Hag will be hoping that United’s decision to refresh their coaching staff will do the trick when the Premier League gets back underway in August. The Red Devils will be hoping to improve on last season’s eighth-placed finish while competing strongly in the Europa League and both domestic cups.