Dirk Kuyt Sacked as Beerschot Manager Following Disastrous Pro League Campaign

Dirk Kuyt, the former Dutch international, has been relieved of his managerial duties at Belgian club Beerschot following a tumultuous season in the top division, the club announced on Friday.

The 44-year-old Kuyt took the helm at Beerschot in December 2023 after the departure of Austrian coach Andreas Wieland. Under Kuyt’s leadership, Beerschot secured the Proximus League title and earned promotion to the Belgian Pro League after two seasons in the second tier.

However, in Kuyt’s inaugural season at the highest level, Beerschot managed to win only three matches during the regular season, ultimately leading to their relegation back to the Proximus League.

On Friday, the club declared that they had terminated their association with Dirk Kuyt, emphasising the difficulties faced throughout the previous season.

“The club extends its heartfelt gratitude to Dirk Kuyt for his commitment, dedication, and positive impact during his time here,” stated Beerschot on their official website.

“His enthusiasm and involvement served as a source of inspiration for the team. We wish him all the best as he continues his coaching journey.”

Controversy

Throughout his tenure at Beerschot, Kuyt voiced his frustrations regarding the club and its Saudi owner, Abdullah Bin Mosaad, with whom he had minimal interaction following the sale of Beerschot star Thibaud Verlinden.

The Katwijk-born ex-professional raised concerns about his future at Beerschot back in May, stating, “A few months ago, I concluded that I couldn’t and didn’t want to continue like this.” In an interview with Het Laatste Nieuws, Kuyt challenged the inadequate training and living conditions for players, as well as the club’s professionalism, pointing out that the team manager also took on roles as the kit manager and groundsman.

Kuyt’s position at Beerschot marked his second foray into professional football management. Previously, in 2022, he had been appointed as manager of Dutch second-tier side ADO Den Haag but was dismissed after overseeing 17 matches.