Ruud van Nistelrooy Shares How Enzo Maresca Shaped His Decision to Join Leicester City

Enzo Maresca played a pivotal role in Ruud van Nistelrooy’s decision to join Leicester City, with the new manager consulting his former teammate before accepting the role.

The pair, who shared the pitch at Malaga over a decade ago, have maintained a close relationship.

When City showed interest in Van Nistelrooy, Maresca, Leicester’s Championship-winning manager, provided valuable insights about the club, influencing the Dutchman’s enthusiasm to take the job.

Van Nistelrooy has signed a two-and-a-half-year contract and is set to oversee his first game against West Ham on Tuesday.

He will also attend Leicester’s match against Brentford from the stands on Saturday.

“I’m proud and excited,” Van Nistelrooy said in his first interview with the club.

“Everyone I’ve spoken to about Leicester City has been enthusiastic and full of positive stories—whether it’s about the quality of the people working here, the supporters, or the club’s recent history.

It’s an honor to be part of such a club, and I can’t wait to give everything I have to help it succeed.”

He credited Maresca as a key influence in his decision-making process. “When the interest came, Enzo was the first person I called,” Van Nistelrooy said.

“He spoke so highly of the club and his time here. Hearing that enthusiasm made it an easy choice.

We had a fantastic conversation where I asked detailed questions about everything—from the club’s structures and squad to the fans, stadium, and even the city itself. Talking to him made me even more excited about the opportunity.”

Maresca’s influence on Van Nistelrooy’s appointment extends beyond personal recommendations.

The former Manchester United interim manager said he gained valuable insights into Leicester’s playing style from his experience facing them twice last season.

He noted the tactical patterns and structures Maresca had implemented, many of which align with his own philosophy from his time managing PSV Eindhoven and working at United.

“Leicester’s style under Maresca, winning the Championship and stepping into the Premier League, reflects principles I’m familiar with and have applied in my own work,” Van Nistelrooy explained.

“Not all of them, of course, but many of the structures—on and off the ball—are similar to the methods I used at PSV. It’s something I can relate to and build upon.”

Van Nistelrooy is optimistic about the squad he inherits, highlighting its balance and strength. He also praised Jamie Vardy, calling him the “face of the club” and a key figure in the team.

The 48-year-old is eager to continue the momentum built under Maresca and embrace the philosophy that has brought Leicester success.

“It’s exciting to see how the structures and ideas are continuing,” he said.

“I’m looking forward to plugging into that and making my mark while helping the team achieve its goals.”