Koeman resigns as Oranje coach after World Cup exit to Morocco

Ronald Koeman resigned as coach of the Netherlands on Tuesday, ending his second stint in charge after the team's Round of 16 elimination against Morocco at the World Cup. The Dutch football federation, the KNVB, has begun searching for a successor.

Koeman announced his decision on Instagram, saying he had decided to leave after the defeat, which fell well short of the KNVB's target of reaching the semifinals.

"Last night I made the decision to end my time as head coach of the Netherlands," Koeman wrote. "We all dreamed of a World Cup where we would make history. That did not happen. No one is more disappointed than I am. As head coach, you carry that responsibility. I have always felt it, and I always will."

The Netherlands lost to Morocco on penalties Monday morning, Netherlands time, after the match ended 1-1 following regulation and extra time. The Dutch had already recovered from deficits several times before the shootout.

Koeman faced heavy criticism after the match for his defensive tactics against Morocco. The Round of 16 exit fell far short of the federation's expectations after the Netherlands advanced from the group stage with wins over Sweden, 5-1, and Tunisia, 3-1, and a 2-2 draw against Japan.

Koeman began his second spell as national team coach on Jan. 1, 2023, having previously led the Netherlands from 2018 to 2020. His contract with the KNVB was due to expire.

His second tenure proved less successful than the first. Although the Netherlands reached the semifinals of the 2024 European Championship, that run was aided by a favorable tournament draw. Since Koeman's return, the Dutch failed to beat any team ranked in the world's top 25.

During his first spell, Koeman helped revive the national team after it failed to qualify for Euro 2016 and the 2018 World Cup. The highlight was a 3-0 Nations League victory over four-time world champion Germany.

Technical director Nigel de Jong said the KNVB has immediately started looking for a new head coach.

Former Liverpool manager Arne Slot, FC Twente technical director Erik ten Hag, Jong Oranje coach Michael Reiziger and PSV coach Peter Bosz have all been mentioned as possible candidates. It remains unclear whether they are willing or able to take the job. Bosz signed a two-year contract extension with PSV in February, and the club has said it contains no clause allowing him to leave early for the national team.