Image Credits: Imago Images
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk has reacted to Ronald Koeman’s departure as Netherlands head coach following their World Cup round-of-32 exit to Morocco.
The Dutch were beaten 3-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw at Estadio BBVA in Monterrey, extending their wait for a World Cup run beyond the quarter-finals since 2014, when they finished third.
Koeman and the Dutch FA confirmed his exit in a joint statement on social media, bringing an end to his second spell in charge.
The 63-year-old had returned to the role in January 2023 after previously leaving in 2020 to join Barcelona, where he was later dismissed after 14 months.
He had guided the Netherlands to the semi-finals of Euro 2024, losing 2-1 to England, and was contracted through to the end of the 2026 World Cup.
“Last night, I took the decision to step down as manager of the Netherlands national team,” Koeman wrote. “We all dreamt of a World Cup in which we would make history. That did not happen.
“No one is more disappointed about this than I am. As national team manager, you bear that responsibility. I have always felt it and will always continue to feel it.”
“Football has been my life, but health is priceless,” he added. “When someone you love dearly is fighting a tough battle, your perspective changes.
“My wife Bartina, despite her own illness, has supported and encouraged me every day to see my work as national team manager through to the end. That is a testament to her incredible strength. I am more grateful to her for that than I could ever put into words.”
Van Dijk, who captains both Liverpool and the Netherlands, has now reacted to the announcement following his side’s tournament exit.
The 34-year-old posted on his Instagram story: “Thanks for everything, coach. My family and I are immensely grateful for everything you have meant to me.
“Your trust and support have played a major role in my development as a player and a person, from my first minutes in the Premier League to the moment I wore the captain’s armband for the Netherlands and became record captain.”
“I hope that the appreciation for who you are as a person will one day be just as loud as the opinions that are so easily shared.
“For behind all the discussions and judgments stands a good person, who deserves nothing less than respect. All the best to you, Bartina, and your family.”
Former Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has been tipped as a possible successor to Ronald Koeman. Slot left Anfield in May after a difficult campaign in which Liverpool fell short in their Premier League title defence.