In a significant move for both Bas Sibum and Heracles Almelo, the 42-year-old trainer from Nieuw-Amsterdam is set to take over as head coach of the Eredivisie club. Reports from various sources, including De Limburger and Voetbal International, confirm that Sibum will transition from his current role as head coach of Roda JC, with the official announcement likely to come tomorrow, April 2, 2025.
Sibum's return to Heracles Almelo marks a full-circle moment in his career, as he previously concluded his playing days with the club in 2016. This move comes in response to the departure of Erwin van de Looi, who announced last month that he would leave the team after just one season at the helm. Heracles currently sits in tenth place in the Eredivisie and is looking for a fresh start under new leadership.
The transition is not without its complications, as Heracles Almelo will need to pay a small transfer fee to Roda JC due to a clause in Sibum's contract that allows for a move to an Eredivisie club for a limited amount. This clause has set the stage for a relatively straightforward transition, with sources indicating that the deal is almost finalized.
Sibum has been with Roda JC since the summer of 2023, where he made a notable impact as head coach. Last season, he led the team to a near-promotion to the Eredivisie, finishing just shy of the second-place spot in the league. Unfortunately, Roda JC's playoff campaign ended in disappointment when they were eliminated by NAC Breda.
Prior to his head coaching role at Roda JC, Sibum served as an assistant coach at FC Emmen, where he began his coaching career in the youth academy. His extensive playing career included stints at FC Emmen, FC Twente, Roda JC, NEC, Alemannia Aachen, and Waasland-Beveren, showcasing his deep-rooted connections within Dutch football.
As Sibum prepares for his new role, he has expressed excitement about returning to Heracles Almelo, a club that holds significant memories for him. In a statement made last week, he acknowledged the interest from multiple clubs, including NEC and PEC Zwolle, but ultimately decided to pursue the opportunity with Heracles. "Sunday, I have a day off, and I will make the decisions then," he said, indicating the importance of this career move.
With the club looking to revitalize its performance and climb the Eredivisie standings, Sibum will face the challenge of reinvigorating a squad that has struggled to find consistent form this season. The fans will be eager to see how he implements his vision and strategy to bring about a turnaround.
The coaching transition at Heracles Almelo is a pivotal moment for the club, as they seek to establish a new identity and direction under Sibum's leadership. His familiarity with the club's culture and history may provide the foundation needed for a successful tenure.
As the situation develops, all eyes will be on the announcement of Sibum's appointment and the subsequent press conference, expected to unveil his plans for the team moving forward. The anticipation surrounding this change reflects the hopes of the Heracles Almelo supporters who are eager for a resurgence in the team's fortunes.
In conclusion, Bas Sibum's impending appointment as head coach at Heracles Almelo signals a new era for the club, as they aim to build on their past successes and forge a competitive future in the Eredivisie.
