Image Credits: Imago Images
Liverpool had reportedly considered Dirk Kuyt as a potential replacement for John Heitinga as assistant coach. However, the Dutchman’s agent ruled out any return to Anfield.
Kuyt began his coaching career in 2017 as an assistant at amateur side Quick Boys before managing Feyenoord’s U19s. He later took his first senior role at ADO Den Haag, though his stint lasted only six months.
He moved to Belgium to manage Beerschot in 2023, guiding them to promotion in his first season before suffering relegation the following year.
Kuyt left Beerschot on June 20 and, a week later, was appointed head coach of FC Dordrecht, replacing Michele Santoni. The former Liverpool forward retired in 2018, having made 285 appearances across six seasons for the club.
Kuyt scored 322 goals during his playing career, featuring for FC Utrecht and Fenerbahce, and enjoying two spells at Feyenoord.
A fan favourite for his work rate, Kuyt remains closely connected to Liverpool, often featuring in the club’s Legends charity matches.
He is now set to stay at FC Dordrecht long-term after signing a two-year contract extension, keeping him at the club until 2028. Dordrecht are currently 10th in the Eerste Divisie, with 47 points from 36 matches this season.
Kuyt said: “I am extremely happy with this contract extension. From the very first moment, I have felt a lot of trust and support here.
“This is a great platform for me to further develop myself as a coach. We are making great strides as a club, and I look forward to continuing that development. Together with FC Dordrecht, I want to keep building and help talents grow further.”
General Manager Hans de Zeeuw added: “It had been in the air for a while, but the signatures have now been officially put down.
“We are very satisfied with Dirk’s approach and the energy he puts into the club every day. We have every confidence that we will experience great moments together in the coming seasons. His vision aligns perfectly with the ambitions of FC Dordrecht and the development we envision as a club.”
Dordrecht finished fifth in the 2024/25 Eerste Divisie season before being knocked out of the promotion play-offs by Willem II on penalties.