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Morocco defeated the Netherlands on penalties, prompting head coach Ronald Koeman to resign shortly afterwards.

Ronald Koeman has stepped down from his role as the Netherlands national football team manager after their elimination from the World Cup at the hands of Morocco.

The Dutch side struggled to impress during the group stage and were knocked out at the first stage of the knockout rounds. Their clash with Morocco in Guadalajara ended 1-1 after regular time, before missed penalties from Crysencio Summerville, Quentin Timber, and Justin Kluivert sealed their fate in the shootout, sending the Oranje home earlier than expected.

Less than a day after the final whistle, Koeman announced his resignation from the managerial role he had held since 2023.

In a translated open letter shared on social media, Koeman wrote: “Last night (Monday) I made the decision to end my time as head coach of the Dutch National Team. Looking back on my career, I feel immense pride and gratitude. I have had the privilege of working at Vitesse, Ajax, Benfica, PSV, Valencia, AZ, Feyenoord, Southampton, Everton, FC Barcelona, and of course, two spells with the Oranje.”

He added: “These clubs and the people I met there shaped me and gave me memories I will treasure forever. That is why it hurts that my journey with the national team ends this way. We all dreamed of a World Cup where we would make history, but that didn’t happen.

“No one feels more disappointed than I do. As a head coach, you bear that responsibility, and I have always accepted that and will continue to do so.”

Koeman also expressed his appreciation to the players, saying: “I want to thank all the players I have had the pleasure to work with. Your effort, spirit, and faith have inspired me every single day.”

Koeman earned 78 caps for the Netherlands as a player and previously managed the national team between 2018 and 2020, leaving to take charge of Barcelona before returning to the Dutch setup.

In his letter, Koeman also shared that he plans to take a break from football to support his wife, actress Bartina Koeman, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in June 2024.

He continued: “The past few years have reminded me that there are more important things than football. Football has been my life, but health is priceless. When someone you love is fighting a difficult battle, your perspective changes.

“My wife Bartina has supported and motivated me to continue my work as national coach, even while dealing with her illness. That shows immense strength. I value her more than I can ever express in words.”