Ruud van Nistelrooy ‘is lined up for a return to management’ – 10 months after quitting PSV – but the Man United legend is ‘NOT the club’s top target’

Ruud van Nistelrooy is among the candidates being considered for the vacant manager’s job at Club Brugge, according to a report. 

The former Manchester United star turned his eye to coaching after his retirement in 2012 and enjoyed his most successful spell in the dugout during his time with PSV. 

The Eredivisie giants won both the Dutch Cup and Dutch Super during his 10 months in charge before he sensationally stepped down last May after claiming he did not have the enough support within the club. 

However, the 47-year-old is not the top target. Brugge are reportedly keen on one of their former players, Schalke boss Karel Geraerts. 

Ruud van Nistelrooy has been out of work since he stepped down as PSV boss last May, citing a lack of support from within the club

Having secured a Dutch Cup-Super Cup double, PSV could only seal a second-place finish last term

Former Celtic boss Ronny Deila was sacked by Club Brugge after their poor regular season

The Belgian arrived at the Veltins-Arena in October with the side languishing in 16th in their second second-tier campaign in three seasons. 

In 17 league outings, the German giants have recorded seven wins, two draws and eight defeats under his leadership. 

The report goes on to claim that Brugge inquired about Geraerts after dismissing Deila but met some resistance, with the former defender unwilling to agree to terms immediately. 

Schalke boss Karel Geraerts is reportedly the top target for the vacant role at the helm of the club

While he remains the number one choice, along with Van Nistelrooy ex-Leeds boss Jesse Marsch is another name in the frame. 

The American has been out of work since he was fired from his role at Elland Road last February as the side approached the relegation they ultimately suffered come May.