Ronald Koeman has stepped down as Netherlands manager following the team’s World Cup elimination and the racist abuse directed at several players after their defeat to Morocco.
The Dutch were knocked out in the last 32 after a 1-1 draw in Monterrey ended in a penalty shootout defeat.
Justin Kluivert, Quinten Timber and Crysencio Summerville all failed to convert from the spot and were subsequently subjected to racist and discriminatory abuse on social media.
Koeman announced his resignation on Instagram, bringing an end to his second spell in charge of the national team and suggesting it could mark the conclusion of his coaching career.
“Looking back on my career, I feel especially proud,” he said.
“We all dreamed of a World Cup in which we would write history. That didn’t work out. No-one is more disappointed about that than me.”
Personal circumstances influenced decision
The 63-year-old indicated that events away from football had played a significant role in his decision to leave the role.
Koeman revealed that recent years had altered his perspective on life and the importance of football, referencing the health struggles faced by his wife, Bartina.
“The past years have made me realise again that there are more important things than football,” he said.
“Football has been my life, but health is priceless. When someone you love is fighting a tough battle, your perspective changes.”
Dutch FA condemns racist abuse
The Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB) strongly condemned the abuse aimed at Kluivert, Timber and Summerville following the shootout defeat.
The governing body confirmed it intends to pursue legal action where possible and will work with authorities to identify those responsible.
“We find this appalling,” the KNVB said.
The incident echoes the abuse suffered by England players Marcus Rashford, Bukayo Saka and Jadon Sancho after they missed penalties in the Euro 2020 final defeat by Italy.
The KNVB reiterated its stance against discrimination, adding: “Football brings together millions of different people, whereas discrimination does the exact opposite. It therefore runs counter to everything football stands for.”
