Ruud van Nistelrooy Joins Netherlands' World Cup Staff

Renowned striker Ruud van Nistelrooy joins the Netherlands football staff under coach Ronald Koeman. Previously an assistant coach, he returns for the World Cup in June. Having coached at Manchester United and Leicester City, Van Nistelrooy aims to bring his experience to the national team’s success.

Renowned former striker Ruud van Nistelrooy is set to join the Netherlands' coaching team under the guidance of Ronald Koeman, ahead of this year's World Cup. The announcement was made by the Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB) on Friday, signaling a strategic move to bolster the country's football aspirations on the global stage.

Van Nistelrooy, who has previously played significant assistant coaching roles under Guus Hiddink and Danny Blind, expressed his enthusiasm for returning to the national team. 'It is a huge honor to return, especially with the World Cup stage,' stated Van Nistelrooy, who is 49. His tenure as an interim coach at Manchester United and his recent position with Leicester City, ending after their Premier League relegation, have armed him with a wealth of experience.

The Netherlands team is eyeing a successful campaign in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, where the World Cup will unfurl from June 11 to July 19. The team's preparation includes warmup friendlies in March against Norway and Ecuador. Entering Group F with Japan, Tunisia, and a European playoff winner, the Netherlands hope to leverage their past World Cup final experience towards ultimate success, with their opening clash set against Japan in Dallas on June 14.

(With inputs from agencies.)