Feyenoord officially named Giovanni van Bronckhorst as their new head coach on June 17, taking over from Robin van Persie, who was fired despite leading the team to a runner-up league finish and Champions League qualification earlier in June [1, 2].
Van Bronckhorst, 51, returns to the club where he is both a former player and coach. He captained Feyenoord to a Dutch Cup victory in 2008 during his playing career [1, 2].
As a coach, Van Bronckhorst enjoyed a successful four-year spell at Feyenoord, capturing the Dutch league title in 2017, winning the Dutch Cup twice, and securing two Super Cups. His five trophies make him the club’s most successful manager to date [1, 2].
He has signed a contract for two seasons, with an option to extend for a third year. Van Bronckhorst will be assisted by Sipke Hulshoff, who joined from Arne Slot's staff at Liverpool last season, giving the coaching team continuity and experience [1, 2].
Robin van Persie’s dismissal came despite the club’s recent achievements under his leadership. Feyenoord have opted to go back to Van Bronckhorst’s familiar leadership as they prepare for the new season [1, 2].