FIFA World Cup 2026: Ronald Koeman steps down as head coach of Netherlands following WC exit
Amsterdam, July 1
Ronald Koeman has informed the Dutch Football Association that he will not extend his contract as Netherlands head coach once it expires.
The 63-year-old made the announcement a day after the Netherlands were eliminated from the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The Oranje were knocked out in the Round of 32 following a penalty shootout defeat to Morocco. Koeman's decision brings an end to his second spell in charge of the national team.
"Precisely because I have worked so closely and intensively with this coaching staff and this group of players for such a long time, this was not an easy decision to make. I am grateful and would like to express my sincere appreciation for the dedication shown by everyone involved with Oranje during both of my periods as head coach," said Ronald Koeman.
"Of course, it is deeply disappointing that our World Cup campaign has ended so early. But once I have had time to process it and look back, I will mainly remember the great cooperation and the many wonderful moments we shared together. I would therefore like to thank everyone who contributed to that. I have decided that now is the right time to spend more time with my wife, children, and grandchildren. At this moment, it feels like the right and most natural decision."
African giants Morocco kept their FIFA World Cup 2026 dream alive with a thrilling 3-2 penalty shootout victory over the Netherlands after the sides were locked at 1-1 following extra time in a gripping Round of 32 encounter on Monday (local time).
Justin Kluivert, Quinten Timber and Crysencio Summerville all missed in the shootout as Morocco won 3-2 on penalties after the last-32 match in Monterrey ended 1-1 after extra time.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Honestly, I'm not surprised. After the penalty shootout disaster, something had to give. Missing three penalties in a shootout is just criminal at this level. 🤦♂️ Koeman's speech about family is sweet though. At least he's prioritizing what matters.
Sad to see a legendary coach leave. But Netherlands have always struggled in knockouts after '10 final. Koeman's second stint had highs but this early exit will haunt him. Hope he enjoys retirement with family - well deserved break!
As a neutral international fan, I was really enjoying the Netherlands team under Koeman. They played attractive football. Morocco's win was historic though - first African team to knock out European giants in shootout! Exciting times for African football.
Tbh, I feel this is on the players more than Koeman. Kluivert and Timber had such promising careers but missed when it mattered most. Though I respect Koeman for stepping down rather than dragging the team through uncertainty. Class act.
This is what happens when you don't give young talent enough game time in knockout tournaments. Koeman's tactics were questionable against Morocco - too defensive after going ahead. 🎯 Hopefully the Dutch find a coach who can take them back to 2010 form.
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