Netherlands coach Koeman resigns after World Cup round-of-32 exit

Ronald Koeman has stepped down as head coach of the Netherlands national football team.

The Royal Dutch Football Association announced Tuesday through its official channels that it had informed Koeman it would not renew his contract, bringing his second stint in charge of the national team to a close.

Koeman also addressed the decision on his social media accounts that day. "Last night I decided to end my time as coach of the Dutch national team," he wrote. "Looking back on my career, I feel above all pride and gratitude. I have had the privilege of working with the national team during two tenures. The clubs and people I have been part of have made me who I am and given me memories I will cherish for the rest of my life."

He did not hide his disappointment over the World Cup exit. "We all dreamed of a World Cup where we could write history, but we did not achieve that. No one is more disappointed about that than I am," he said.

Koeman also acknowledged his responsibility. "As national team coach, you carry that responsibility. I have always felt it and always will," he said.

The Netherlands had been considered one of the favorites to win the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North and Central America.

They lived up to those expectations in the group stage, finishing top of Group F with two wins and a draw.

However, they were eliminated Monday after losing to Morocco in the round of 32 at Estadio BBVA in Guadalupe, Mexico.

The match ended 1-1 after regular time and went to extra time, but the two sides could not be separated.

The Netherlands then lost the penalty shootout 3-2 and were knocked out.

"This was not an easy decision. It is very disappointing that the World Cup ended so quickly for us," Koeman said in his farewell remarks.

Meanwhile, a string of coaching departures and dismissals has followed poor performances at the tournament, with South Korea, the Czech Republic and Tunisia among the countries that have already seen their managers leave.