Gary Lineker’s succinct take on Leicester’s new manager
Gary Lineker shares his thoughts on Leicester City’s appointment of Ruud van Nistelrooy as manager.
Ruud van Nistelrooy was announced as Leicester City’s new manager on Friday, signing a contract until June 2027 to replace Steve Cooper.
Although he wasn’t in charge during Saturday’s game, Van Nistelrooy witnessed Leicester’s 4-1 defeat to Brentford from the stands.
Saturday, 30th November
Premier League
Brentford 4–1 Leicester
Gary Lineker Welcomes Van Nistelrooy’s Appointment
While Alan Shearer and Micah Richards expressed sympathy for Cooper’s dismissal, Gary Lineker has embraced the start of a new chapter for Leicester City.
Discussing Van Nistelrooy’s arrival on Match of the Day, Lineker expressed optimism when asked by fellow pundit Danny Murphy about his feelings.
Murphy admitted he was “excited” to see what the former Premier League star could bring to the team and asked Lineker for his take.
Lineker replied, “Excited. Well, I am.” Murphy then lightheartedly teased Lineker, suggesting he needed some excitement after witnessing Leicester’s crushing defeat.
Van Nistelrooy Begins His Role at Leicester
Now officially in charge, Van Nistelrooy will begin his duties by meeting the squad.
Despite his Friday appointment, a trio of coaches led by Ben Dawson managed the team for the weekend, having worked with the players throughout the week.
The new manager and his staff are set to convene at the Seagrave training facility to prepare for upcoming fixtures.
Speaking after the Brentford game, caretaker manager Dawson confirmed he had not spoken to Van Nistelrooy before the match.
“There was just a message last night when the appointment was made,” Dawson revealed. “He wished everybody good luck.”
The focus now shifts to Tuesday night’s game, with plans already in motion for a meeting at the training ground.
Dawson explained, “We’d scheduled a meeting to review the game and prepare for Tuesday, regardless of the appointment. It’s now up to the new manager to decide how to use that time.”
With his tenure officially underway, Van Nistelrooy faces the challenge of turning Leicester’s fortunes around in the Premier League.
