Koeman Leaves Netherlands National Team Coaching Post

Ronald Koeman will step down as the head coach of the Netherlands national football team, having informed the Royal Netherlands Football Association (KNVB) of his decision not to renew his contract. The announcement follows the team's elimination from the 2026 World Cup in the Round of 16 after a penalty shootout loss to Morocco.

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Now I choose to be able to spend more time with my wife, my children, and my grandchildren. I think it's the right and logical choice at this moment.

Koeman, 63, stated that he has chosen to prioritize spending more time with his wife, children, and grandchildren. "I think it's the right and logical choice at this moment," he said in a statement released by the KNVB. He acknowledged that the decision was difficult, given the long and intense working relationship with his coaching staff and the players.

"Of course, it is very disappointing that our World Cup is already over," Koeman added. "But when we move forward and look back, I will mainly remember the pleasant cooperation and the many beautiful moments we have shared together. Therefore, I would like to thank everyone who contributed to this."

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Of course, it is very disappointing that our World Cup is already over. But when we move forward and look back, I will mainly remember the pleasant cooperation and the many beautiful moments we have shared together.

Nigel de Jong, the KNVB's director of high-level football, expressed respect for Koeman's decision, thanking him for his significant contributions to the national team over the years. De Jong confirmed that the post-World Cup evaluation has begun and that the search for a new national coach is underway, acknowledging the urgency with the UEFA Nations League starting in September.

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Ronald has worked with full conviction in recent years and has made an important contribution to the Dutch national team. On behalf of the KNVB, I would like to thank him for that.