Ruud van Nistelrooy has emerged as the leading contender for the vacant managerial position at Leicester City after the sacking of Steve Cooper. The appointment comes just weeks after Van Nistelrooy’s brief stint as interim manager at Manchester United ended, making him available for the Foxes’ managerial role.

Van Nistelrooy, who joined Erik ten Hag’s staff at United during the summer, was thrust into the managerial position in October following Ten Hag’s dismissal. His tenure included three wins in four matches, including back-to-back victories over Leicester, before United appointed Ruben Amorim as their new head coach, ending his short spell.

Leicester City parted ways with Steve Cooper on Sunday after a difficult start to the season, with the team earning only 10 points from 12 Premier League games. Cooper’s assistants, Alan Tate and Steve Rands, were also dismissed, leaving first-team coach Ben Dawson in temporary charge.

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Reports indicate that Van Nistelrooy has held extensive talks with Leicester’s hierarchy and is expected to be confirmed as the club’s new manager before their upcoming match against Brentford. His availability, following his departure from United, has made him an attractive option for Leicester, as no compensation is required for his services.

This potential move would mark Van Nistelrooy’s second senior managerial role, following his 11-month spell at PSV Eindhoven. Despite a desire to remain part of United’s coaching setup under Ruben Amorim, Van Nistelrooy was not retained, as Amorim reportedly chose not to communicate with him during his interim period.

While other candidates, such as former Chelsea manager Graham Potter and ex-West Ham manager David Moyes, were considered, sources close to Leicester have ruled them out, leaving Van Nistelrooy as the top choice. If confirmed, Van Nistelrooy will aim to revive Leicester’s fortunes and lead the club away from their current struggles in the Premier League.