FC Groningen is facing growing calls to discipline former star Arjen Robben after the youth coach was caught on video shouting at a referee during an under-14 match.
German journalist Michel Schröer filmed the incident, which showed Robben receiving a yellow card for his aggressive behavior on an amateur field.
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The outburst follows a previous sideline altercation involving TV presenter Wilfred Genee, prompting analysts on the Vandaag Inside program to demand intervention from the club.
Pundits Condemn Robben's Conduct
Pundit Johan Derksen strongly condemned Robben's actions, arguing they set a terrible example for young players and conflicted with his role as an educator.
Derksen noted that Robben was shouting at the referee even though no spectators were present at the field.
He stated that a youth coach must primarily act as a pedagogue, adding that while Robben has a wealth of experience, he cannot handle children properly.
Derksen warned that the coach's behavior directly encourages misconduct from players on the pitch.
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Genee expressed bewilderment at the prolonged nature of Robben's outbursts during matches.
The TV host revealed that the club dismissed the actions as passionate coaching, a defense Derksen labeled a chic description of misconduct.
Football analyst Valentijn Driessen argued that this behavior is inherent to Robben, rendering him unfit to be a trainer.
Dutch referee Bas Nijhuis also criticized the behavior, expressing disappointment that a young referee had to endure such treatment.
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Robben began leading the FC Groningen under-14 squad this season, where his son Kai plays, marking his first independent head coaching role since retiring in 2021.
