Former Netherlands international Dirk Kuyt has been relieved of his duties as manager of Belgian club Beerschot following a tumultuous season in the top division, as confirmed by the club on Friday.
The 44-year-old Kuyt took the reins at Beerschot in December 2023, succeeding Austrian Andreas Wieland. Under his stewardship, Beerschot secured the Proximus League title and earned promotion to the Belgian Pro League after a two-year stint in the second division.
In Kuyt’s inaugural season in the top tier, Beerschot managed to win only three matches during the regular campaign before suffering relegation back to the Proximus League.
On Friday, Beerschot announced the termination of its partnership with Kuyt, emphasising the difficulties faced during the previous season.
“The club would like to sincerely thank Dirk Kuyt for his dedication, commitment, and positive contributions,” stated Beerschot on their official website.
“His energy and involvement served as an inspiration for the team. We wish him all the best in his future coaching endeavours.”
Criticism
Throughout his time at Beerschot, Kuyt didn’t shy away from criticising both the club and its Saudi owner, Abdullah Bin Mosaad, with whom he had minimal communication following the transfer of star player Thibaud Verlinden.
The Katwijk-born former professional voiced concerns about his future at Beerschot back in May. “Several months ago, I concluded that I couldn’t and didn’t want to go on like this,” he told Het Laatste Nieuws. Kuyt pointed out the inadequacies in player living arrangements and training facilities, as well as the lack of professionalism, mentioning that the team manager also took on the roles of kit manager and groundsman.
This role at Beerschot marked Kuyt’s second foray into professional football management. In 2022, he had been appointed manager of Dutch second-tier side ADO Den Haag but was dismissed after just 17 matches in charge.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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