In a significant development for Dutch women's football, Arjan Veurink has been appointed as the new head coach of the OranjeLeeuwinnen, set to take over after the upcoming European Championship in 2025. Veurink, 38, will succeed Andries Jonker, who has held the position since 2022. The Dutch Football Association (KNVB) confirmed that Veurink has signed a contract that extends until the European Championship in 2029.
Veurink will lead the national team for the first time during the international period in October 2025, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter in his coaching career. He expressed his enthusiasm for this opportunity, stating, "This is not only a great challenge and a beautiful new adventure, it also feels like a logical next step in my career." He added, "I have never made it a secret that I wanted to be the head coach of the Dutch national team one day. With over eight years of experience at the highest level as Sarina Wiegman’s right-hand man, first in the Netherlands and now in England, I am ready to stand on my own two feet."
Veurink's coaching journey began with FC Twente, where he served as the head coach from 2012 to 2016. During his tenure, he led the team to remarkable success, winning the Women’s BeNe League twice, securing the national championship four times, and claiming the KNVB Cup once. His time at FC Twente solidified his reputation as a formidable coach in women's football.
In 2017, Veurink joined the Dutch national team as Wiegman’s assistant. This partnership yielded significant achievements, including winning the European Championship in 2017 and reaching the World Cup final in 2019. Following this successful stint, Veurink made a pivotal move to England in 2021 alongside Wiegman, where he continued to excel. Together, they led the Lionesses to victory in the 2022 European Championship and finished as runners-up in the World Cup a year later.
Nigel de Jong, the director of top football at the KNVB, praised Veurink's extensive experience in women's football, emphasizing his deep understanding of the sport's evolution over the past fifteen years. "Arjan has a rich history in women's football and has closely witnessed the developments in international women's football. He knows what is required at the absolute top but also understands the importance of maintaining connections with the grassroots level," De Jong stated.
As Veurink prepares to take the reins of the OranjeLeeuwinnen, he faces the challenge of building upon the solid foundation laid by his predecessors. His coaching philosophy and experience will be crucial as the team aims for success in future competitions.
Looking ahead, the Dutch national team is set to compete in the upcoming European Championship in Switzerland, where they will face tough opponents, including England, France, and Wales in Group D. This tournament will serve as a significant test for the team before Veurink officially takes over.
Veurink's appointment has generated excitement among fans and players alike, with many eager to see how he will shape the team’s future. His track record of success and deep knowledge of the women's game position him well to lead the OranjeLeeuwinnen into a new era.
As the countdown to the European Championship begins, all eyes will be on Veurink and the Dutch team. Can they rise to the occasion and make their mark on the international stage? With Veurink at the helm, the prospects look promising.
