New Delhi, July 1: Following the Netherlands’ exit from the FIFA World Cup, coach Ronald Koeman has announced his resignation. The team faced Morocco in the Round of 32, where they suffered a defeat, ending their World Cup journey.
With the loss against Morocco, Koeman stepped down from his role. This marks the end of his second tenure as the coach of the “Oranje” (Netherlands team).
Koeman began his first term in early 2018, which lasted until mid-2020. After the World Cup in Qatar, where the Netherlands reached the quarter-finals, he rejoined the team as coach at the start of 2023.
On Instagram, Koeman stated, “I have decided to end my tenure as the coach of the Dutch national team. We all dreamed of a World Cup where we would make history. We were not successful. No one is more disappointed than I am. As national coach, this responsibility falls on you. I have always felt this, and I always will.”
He added, “Moreover, in recent years, I have realized that there are things more important than football. Football has been my life, but health is invaluable.”
Under Koeman’s coaching, the Dutch national team qualified for three major tournaments: Euro 2021, Euro 2024, and the 2026 World Cup. During Euro 2024, the “Oranje” reached the semi-finals.
In his first term as national coach, Koeman led the “Oranje” to the UEFA Nations League final in 2019. Overall, he managed the Dutch national team in 64 official international matches. The Royal Dutch Football Association later confirmed that Koeman informed the federation he would not extend his contract as head coach of the Netherlands national team.
Koeman expressed, “It was not an easy decision to make, as I have worked closely and diligently with this coaching staff and group of players for so long.” He added, “I am grateful and want to sincerely commend everyone involved with the ‘Oranje’ during both of my tenures as head coach.”
He further remarked that it is disappointing for their World Cup campaign to end so early. However, when he reflects on this experience, he will mainly remember the excellent collaboration and many wonderful moments they shared. Therefore, he wishes to thank everyone who contributed. Koeman concluded by stating that now is the right time to spend more time with his wife, children, and grandchildren. It feels like the most natural decision at this moment.
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