Ronald Koeman’s second stint as Netherlands manager is over.
The 63-year-old gaffer announced his resignation on Tuesday less than 24 hours after the Oranje crashed out of the World Cup in the Round of 32, on penalties to Morocco.
“Last night, I decided to bring my time as head coach of the Dutch national team to a close,” Koeman wrote. “Looking back on my career, I feel a profound sense of pride and gratitude. I have had the privilege of working with Vitesse, Ajax, Benfica, PSV, Valencia, AZ, Feyenoord, Southampton, Everton, and FC Barcelona—and, of course, two spells with the Dutch national team. These are clubs and people that have shaped me and given me memories I will cherish for the rest of my life."
After coaching the national side from 2018 to 2020, Koeman was reappointed to the post in 2023 upon the retirement of Louis van Gaal. He took the Oranje to the Euro 2024 semifinals where they fell to England. It was the Oranje’s first semi appearance at a major tournament since the 2014 World Cup semis.
The Netherlands earned a berth to the World Cup on the back of an undefeated qualifying campaign, finishing atop a group that also included Poland, Finland, Malta and Lithuania. Drawn into Group F with Japan, Sweden and Tunisia, the Oranje finished in top spot in the group on seven points with two wins and a draw.
In Monday’s match, the Oranje opened the scoring through Liverpool’s Cody Gakpo in the 72nd minute. The Netherlands then were content to drop back and protect the lead, but Morocco levelled in the first minute of stoppage on an Issa Diop goal to force extra time. Extra time solved nothing with Morocco emerging on penalties, 3-2. It was the first time in 12 World Cup appearances that the Oranje failed to reach the Round of 16.
Three-time finalists, the Netherlands have never won a World Cup.
