Daijiworld Media Network – Amsterdam

Amsterdam, Jul 1: Ronald Koeman has resigned as head coach of the Netherlands national football team following the side's Round of 32 exit at the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Koeman announced his decision on Tuesday, a day after the Netherlands suffered a penalty shootout defeat to Morocco. In a statement shared on social media, he accepted full responsibility for the team's disappointing campaign.

"We all shared the dream of making history at this World Cup, but we fell short. No one is more disappointed than I am. As head coach, the responsibility ultimately rests with me," Koeman said.

The 62-year-old leaves as the Netherlands' second longest-serving manager in terms of matches, having overseen 64 games across two spells in charge. He also cited personal reasons for stepping down, saying he wanted to spend more time with his wife, children and grandchildren.

The Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB) confirmed that the search for a new head coach has already begun.

Former Liverpool manager Arne Slot, Erik ten Hag, Jong Oranje coach Michael Reiziger, PSV Eindhoven coach Peter Bosz and former Netherlands striker Ruud van Nistelrooy are among the names being linked with the vacancy.

Koeman's second spell in charge had come under increasing criticism following the World Cup campaign. The Netherlands failed to register a victory against any team ranked among the top 25 in the FIFA rankings during his tenure.

His decision to field a five-man defence and adopt a counter-attacking approach against Morocco drew criticism from Dutch media and supporters. The Netherlands conceded a stoppage-time equaliser before losing the match in a penalty shootout, bringing Koeman's second stint as national coach to an end.