Koeman leaves future open after World Cup exit: "Wants to reflect in peace"

The Netherlands has been prematurely eliminated from the 2026 World Cup against Morocco, with the penalty shootout marking the end once again (to the match report>>>).

A new upheaval could now be on the cards for "Oranje", and the future of national coach Ronald Koeman is also uncertain. The 63-year-old bears particular responsibility after the exit, having switched the team's system from the typical Dutch 4-3-3 to a 3-4-3 before the match. Criticism for this came among others from Swedish legend Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

"I know, as national coach, I am praised when an equalizer isn't conceded. Now I am criticized because I played with five defenders," Koeman countered.

Koeman Leaves Future Open

Even the former Barca coach himself doesn't know whether he will remain coach of "Oranje" beyond the World Cup summer. However, he stated after the match that he had not offered his resignation. "I will reflect on my future in peace," said Koeman, who has been national coach of the Netherlands for the second time in his career since 2023.

However, it seems unrealistic that he will continue despite an overall disappointing tenure – his contract expires at the end of the World Cup.

Ex-Dortmund Coach Tipped as Successor

A successor is reportedly already being discussed for "Oranje": According to the specialist magazine "Voetbal International", Peter Bosz, former head coach of Borussia Dortmund, is said to be the favourite to succeed Koeman.

Since summer 2023, the 62-year-old has been coaching PSV Eindhoven, with whom he has won the Dutch championship three times in a row. Bosz stands for an offensive 4-3-3 system, which he has implemented at every coaching station so far. Among others, the Dutchman has coached BVB, Bayer Leverkusen, and Olympique Lyon.