Nations League
Koeman's exit after Morocco shock underscores Dutch upheaval
Ronald Koeman, the 63‑year‑old former defender, is no longer in charge of the Netherlands national team after their Round of 32 exit to Morocco at the FIFA World Cup. The change was reported by and confirmed by Koeman himself.
Koeman’s second spell follows a playing career that included winning Euro 1988 for the Netherlands. His first managerial stint from 2018 to 2020 ended when he accepted an offer from Barcelona.
He returned after the Qatar World Cup to replace Louis Van Gaal, who was battling prostate cancer. The appointment marked Koeman’s comeback to the senior side.
Dutch fans breathe relief as Koeman quits after World Cup exit
The Netherlands qualified for this World Cup without scares, topping Group G in the qualifiers and sending Poland to the playoffs. Their path to Qatar was therefore secured early. At Euro 2024 the Dutch reached the semifinals before losing to eventual runners‑up England. That defeat ended their most recent major tournament run. In the latest Nations League campaign, the Netherlands were eliminated in the quarter‑finals by Spain. The loss capped a series of setbacks for Koeman’s side.