The KNVB will carefully evaluate the failed European Championship for the Orange Women, the association announced in a statement on Tuesday. The KNVB saw no reason to terminate the collaboration with national coach Andries Jonker earlier in the run-up to the tournament.
The KNVB announced in February that Jonker’s expiring contract would not be extended. The press release stated that the association had decided “after an evaluation” that it was “time for a new phase”. Jonker was not involved in that evaluation.
Jonker previously expressed his surprise at the association’s approach but did not want to go into it too deeply. Just before the European Championship, the national coach himself considered quitting Oranje, but after discussions with the players, he decided to serve his contract.
“Prior to the European Championship, it was decided to embark on a new course with a different national coach after the tournament,” the KNVB announced on Tuesday. The association chose Arjan Veurink as Jonker’s successor. Veurink is currently assistant to national coach Sarina Wiegman at England.
“Given the expiring contract with Jonker, there was no reason for earlier termination,” the association continued. “There was confidence to complete this European Championship trajectory together. The entire process will naturally be carefully evaluated.”
Orange started the European Championship in Switzerland well with a 3-0 victory over Wales in the first group match. But Jonker’s team continued the tournament with heavy defeats against England (4-0) and France (5-2).
“The European Championship has been disappointing for us,” writes the KNVB. “We knew that we were facing a tough task in the ‘group of death’, but we had hoped for better results and a stronger performance.”
According to the KNVB, Orange is now at the beginning of a new phase. “The appointment of Arjan Veurink as national coach marks that turning point. With him, we are taking targeted steps in the further development of the team and women’s football in the Netherlands.”
Finally, the KNVB expresses appreciation for Jonker, who started as national coach in August 2022. “He has been committed to the Dutch national team for many years. We are grateful to him for that.”