Why I resigned as Netherlands coach – Koeman

Netherlands head coach, Ronald Koeman has resigned his appointment, citing disappointment over the European nation’s early exit from the World Cup and family commitments.

Koeman cut short his second stint as Oranje coach after his team lost on penalties to Morocco in the round of 32.

He became the fourth manager to step down after early exit at the ongoing tournament, following in the footsteps of Czechia’s Miroslav Koubek, Scotland’s Steve Clarke, and Hong Myung-bo of South Korea.

In an emotional message announcing his departure, the Dutch legend said, “I decided last night that it is time to step down as head coach of the Netherlands.

“We all shared the dream of making history at this World Cup, but we fell short.

“No one is more disappointed by that than I am.

“As head coach, the responsibility ultimately rests with me.”

The former Barcelona boss also hinted at retirement from coaching entirely over family responsibilities.

The 63-year-old suggested he would step back from coaching to assist his ailing wife, Bartina, who has continued to support his career despite her condition.

“Moreover, the past few years have made me realise once again that there are more important things than football. Football has been my life, but health is priceless. When someone you love dearly is fighting a tough battle, your perspective changes. Despite her own illness, my wife Bartina supported and encouraged me every day to finish my work as head coach. That shows incredible strength. I am more grateful to her for that than I could ever put into words,” he stated his message posted on Instagram.

Koeman thanked players and colleagues that have had his back over the years.

He said, “I want to thank all the players I had the pleasure to work with. Your efforts, character, and confidence have motivated me every day. Thanks also to my staff, the KNVB, all the employees behind the scenes and the clubs I’ve allowed to work with. But above all thanks to the supporters. For being supportive even in times when it was difficult. It was a great honor to be able to represent the Netherlands as a head coach.

“I am saying goodbye with mixed feelings. Naturally, I would have preferred to conclude my time with the Oranje with a world title. Unfortunately, that dream remained unfulfilled. But above all, pride prevails. Pride in everything football has brought me, in the people I’ve met, and in the fact that I was able to turn my greatest passion into my profession. Thank you for all those years of trust, criticism, support, disappointments, successes, and so on.”