Ronald Koeman steps down as Netherlands coach after World Cup exit
By OnzeActu · · 2 min read
Ronald Koeman has announced his departure as Netherlands coach after his team was eliminated in the round of 16 of the World Cup by Morocco. The former defender, 63, takes responsibility for this setback and ends his second mandate at the head of the selection.
The recent elimination of the Netherlands by Morocco in the round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup had immediate consequences for the Dutch team. Ronald Koeman has formalized his departure from the post of Oranje coach, a decision he took personally. On Instagram, the 63-year-old former defender expressed his deep disappointment: “We all dreamed of a World Cup where we would make history. This did not happen. No one is more disappointed than me. As a coach, I bear this responsibility. I have always felt it and I always will. »
Koeman was in his second term at the head of the national team, a position he had already held between 2018 and 2020 before leaving to coach FC Barcelona. He returned after the World Cup in Qatar to replace Louis Van Gaal, himself absent due to prostate cancer. Under his leadership, the Netherlands brilliantly validated their ticket to the 2022 World Cup by finishing at the top of qualifying group G, relegating Poland to the play-offs.
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During his second stint, Koeman led the Oranje to the semi-finals of the 2024 European Championship, where they were eliminated by England, future finalist. Their journey in the Nations League ended at the quarter-final stage against Spain.
This departure now opens a new page for the Dutch selection, looking for a new lease of life after this premature exit in the World Cup.