Ronald Koeman has resigned as head coach of the Netherlands national football team.
He announced his decision on Instagram on July 2, 2026, following a second-round World Cup elimination against Morocco.
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Koeman hinted at his departure during a brief press conference after the match before officially confirming it online.
According to Soccernews.
nl, his second tenure with the national squad was highly disappointing and ended abruptly in the early knockout stages.
"When I look back on my career, I mainly feel pride and gratitude.
I have had the privilege of working at Vitesse, Ajax, Benfica, PSV, Valencia, AZ, Feyenoord, Southampton, Everton, FC Barcelona and of course two periods at Oranje.
Clubs and people who have shaped me and given me memories that I will cherish all my life," Koeman said.
Koeman accepted full accountability for the early exit. The team had initially aimed for a historic campaign but fell short.
"We all dreamed of a World Cup in which we would make history. That did not work out.
No one is more disappointed about that than me. As national coach, you bear that responsibility.
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I have always felt that and will always continue to feel that," he added.
With the managerial vacancy, attention turned to captain Virgil van Dijk. He faced scrutiny after defensive errors and declining a penalty kick during the tournament.
De Telegraaf questioned him about his future with the national squad.
"It is not wise for me to talk about my future now. I can't see the wood for the trees anymore.
I think I will think about that later. First I want to go home.
See my family," van Dijk said.
The captain emphasized his need to step away from football to process a turbulent and emotionally draining competitive year.
He experienced a challenging club season with Liverpool, including the death of teammate Diogo Jota and the exit of manager Arne Slot.
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The international campaign was also marked by personal tragedy, as teammate Cody Gakpo lost his unborn son during the tournament cycle.
