KNVB's search for a second Klopp hinges on one name

The Royal Dutch Football Association is urgently seeking a successor to Ronald Koeman after Oranje’s early World Cup exit. Behind closed doors in Zeist, work is underway on two fronts: finalising the current staff’s departure and appointing a new head coach. Wim Jonk and Erwin Koeman concluded their exit talks with director of top football Nigel de Jong on Friday. Both assistants’ contracts expire, with Erwin Koeman already deciding to end his coaching career after the tournament. Wim Jonk, who joined mid-project, now aims to return as a head coach. Ruud van Nistelrooij and Patrick Lodewijks have not yet met the KNVB following the elimination. Their contracts also conclude, leaving the bond to address four upcoming FIFA internationals in September, including matches against Germany, Serbia (twice) and Greece. The search for a long-term leader is underway, with Nigel de Jong collaborating with football commissioner Clarence Seedorf and director of professional football Marianne van Leeuwen. The KNVB wants someone capable of building a team and culture across multiple tournaments, not tempted by club offers. Arne Slot emerges as a leading candidate. The 47-year-old’s clear style and availability make him attractive, though his Liverpool exit raises questions about his immediate availability and financial terms. German media reported initial contact had been made, but this remains unconfirmed.

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Peter Bosz, 62, is another option. The PSV head coach, in his final club role, has a clear football philosophy and previously gave the KNVB carte blanche to approach him after the World Cup. His contract in Eindhoven includes no release clause, according to director Marcel Brands. Internationally, Jürgen Klopp’s appointment as Germany’s new coach highlights the profile the KNVB seeks: experience, status and no desire for daily club football. Pep Guardiola, taking a sabbatical after leaving Manchester City, is not available. Michael Reiziger, currently coaching Jong Oranje, is seen as unlikely to step up to the senior role despite his involvement in Koeman’s Euro 2024 staff. The players’ group may also be consulted, with Virgil van Dijk’s future as captain uncertain after the tournament.

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Denzel Dumfries is the overwhelming internal favourite to succeed Van Dijk. The Real Madrid defender’s leadership during the Morocco disappointment and his inclusion in Oranje’s leadership group strengthen his candidacy. He could make his 24th birthday the oldest player on the pitch against Germany on 24 September. Nigel de Jong plans discussions with key players to address the team’s missing intensity and venom, qualities he embodied as an international. The UEFA’s tournament evaluation showed Oranje covered the fewest average metres per game of all 24 teams at Euro 2024, a trend repeated at this World Cup.