Ronald Koeman has resigned as manager of Netherlands Men’s National Team after their 2026 FIFA World Cup exit.
Koeman’s Oranje suffered a dramatic 3-2 exit on penalties against Morocco yesterday (29 June) after a 1-1 draw in Guadalupe, Mexico, in which Cody Gakpo fired them in front before Issa Diop pulled Morocco level in the first minute of injury time.
“Precisely because I have worked with this staff and group of players for so long and intensively, making this decision was not easy,” explained Koeman on his decision to resign for a second time – having previously managed them between February 2018 – August 2020 before he left for Barcelona.
“I am grateful and want to express my great appreciation for the way in which everyone around the Orange has committed themselves in both periods that I was allowed to be national coach.”
Koeman proceeded to reflect on their World Cup campaign and added that his focus is now on family.
“Of course it is very disappointing that our World Cup has already ended. But when I have given that a place later and look back, I will mainly remember that pleasant cooperation and the many beautiful moments we have experienced together. I would therefore like to thank everyone who contributed to this.
“I now choose to be able to spend more time with my wife, children and grandchildren. It feels like the right and logical choice at the moment.”
Director of Top Football, Nigel de Jong added that Koeman has demonstrated “conviction” and “important contribution” during his spells in charge, as he thanked the 63 year-old on behalf of the KNVB, who had anticipated Koeman’s potential departure given that his contract was set to expire.
“Of course, we will also consider the vacancy of national coach. That Ronald would stop after this World Cup was one of the scenarios we took into account. With the start of the UEFA Nations League in September, we know that there is some urgency, but at the same time we are taking the time necessary to carefully make the right choice.”
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