Ronald Koeman has stepped down as head coach of the Netherlands national football team, bringing an end to his second spell in charge following the Oranje’s disappointing exit from the FIFA World Cup 2026.

The 63-year-old announced his resignation on Tuesday, less than 24 hours after the Netherlands suffered a heartbreaking Round of 32 defeat to Morocco on penalties. The result marked one of the biggest upsets of the tournament and ended the Dutch side’s World Cup campaign earlier than expected.

“Last night, I decided to bring my time as head coach of the Dutch national team to a close,” Koeman said in a statement. “Looking back on my career, I feel a profound sense of pride and gratitude. I have had the privilege of working with Vitesse, Ajax, Benfica, PSV, Valencia, AZ, Feyenoord, Southampton, Everton, and FC Barcelona-and, of course, two spells with the Dutch national team. These are clubs and people that have shaped me and given me memories I will cherish for the rest of my life,” the Dutch head coach said after the match.

Koeman first took charge of the Netherlands in 2018 before leaving in 2020 to become Barcelona manager. He returned for a second stint in 2023 after Louis van Gaal retired, tasked with guiding the Oranje back among Europe’s elite.

Under his leadership, the Netherlands reached the semifinals of Euro 2024, where they were narrowly beaten by England. It was the country’s first appearance in the last four of a major international tournament since the 2014 FIFA World Cup.

The Dutch also enjoyed an impressive qualification campaign for the 2026 World Cup, finishing unbeaten at the top of their group ahead of Poland, Finland, Malta and Lithuania. They carried that momentum into the tournament, topping Group F with seven points after victories over Japan and Tunisia, along with a draw against Sweden.

However, their campaign came to a dramatic end against Morocco in the Round of 32. Cody Gakpo appeared to have secured victory after giving the Netherlands the lead in the 72nd minute, but Issa Diop equalised in first-half stoppage time. Neither side could find a winner in extra time before Morocco prevailed 3-2 in the penalty shootout.

Koeman departs with the Netherlands still chasing a first FIFA World Cup title. Despite reaching three finals in their history, the Oranje remain one of football’s most accomplished nations yet to lift the coveted trophy.