Koeman resigns as Netherlands coach after World Cup exit
by Moronfolu Adeyemi · The Eagle OnlineRonald Koeman has resigned as Netherlands head coach following his side’s FIFA World Cup Round of 32 exit to Morocco.
The 63-year-old announced his decision in a statement on Instagram, ending his second spell in charge of the Dutch national team.
This was after their penalty shootout defeat on Monday.
Koeman said: “Last night I took the decision to end my stint as head coach of the Dutch national team.
“We all shared the dream of making history at this World Cup, but we fell short.
“No one is more disappointed by that than I am. As head coach, the responsibility ultimately rests with me.”
Koeman, who returned as Netherlands coach in January 2023 after previously leading the team between 2018 and 2020, also suggested he may not return to coaching, saying recent personal experiences had changed his priorities.
“Moreover, the past few years have made me realise once again that there are more important things than football,” he said.
“Football has been my life, but health is priceless. When someone you love dearly is fighting a tough battle, your perspective changes.
“Despite her own illness, my wife Bartina supported and encouraged me every day to finish my work as head coach. That shows incredible strength. I am more grateful to her for that than I could ever put into words.”
The resignation followed a disappointing World Cup campaign that ended earlier than expected.
Dutch football association technical director Nigel de Jong admitted the team had fallen well below its objectives.
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De Jong said: “The objective was the semi-finals, and the ambition was to become world champions.
“Unfortunately, we didn’t achieve that. Yes, we are a long way off. That is the conclusion. We have to be honest about that.”
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