In a significant coaching shift, England women’s assistant manager Arjan Veurink will part ways with the Lionesses after the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 to take the helm of the Netherlands women’s national team.
The 38-year-old Dutchman, who has worked alongside Sarina Wiegman since 2015, will step into the head coach role, replacing Andries Jonker. Veurink’s new contract will run until the conclusion of UEFA Women’s Euro 2029.
From Trusted Deputy to Head Coach: A Journey of Evolution
Arjan Veurink’s coaching career has been deeply interwoven with Sarina Wiegman’s. Their partnership began with the Netherlands national side, reaching a pinnacle when they lifted the UEFA Women’s Euro trophy in 2017 and narrowly missed out on World Cup glory in 2019. When Wiegman transitioned to manage England in 2021, Veurink followed, becoming a crucial figure behind England’s historic Euro 2022 triumph and the team’s run to the 2023 World Cup final.
His elevation to the top job in the Netherlands marks a natural progression in a career marked by consistency, tactical prowess, and collaborative success. Veurink, who previously managed FC Twente, is no stranger to leading from the front, and his return to his home nation signals a full-circle moment.
A Vision Fulfilled: Veurink’s Own Words
Speaking about his appointment, Veurink expressed both excitement and gratitude: “This is not only a great challenge and a wonderful new adventure, it also feels like a logical next step in my career,” Veurink said. “I have never made a secret of the fact that I wanted to be ultimately responsible for the Dutch national team at some point.”
“With over eight years of experience at the highest level [with] Sarina Wiegman, I am ready to stand on my own two feet. The fact this opportunity has now arisen in the Netherlands makes it extra special. I will now do everything I can to conclude the coming months in England in style, and then start this new chapter.”
His statement reflects both his deep-rooted ambition and his commitment to finish strong with England before embracing his next professional milestone.
Dutch Federation’s Vote of Confidence
Nigel de Jong, the director of top-level football at the Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB), underscored Veurink’s credentials and values: “He knows what is required at the absolute top, but also knows how important it is to maintain the connection with the basics. We are therefore pleased that he wants to take on the challenge. We would also like to thank the English Football Association for their cooperation.”
The KNVB’s endorsement highlights their belief in Veurink’s capacity to balance elite performance with grassroots connectivity—an approach aligned with the federation’s long-term vision.
England FA’s Respectful Farewell
The Football Association acknowledged the Dutchman’s contributions, emphasizing his professionalism and ongoing dedication to the Lionesses’ campaign: “He continues to be a highly valued and respected member of Sarina’s team and has complete focus on the Lionesses’ current Uefa Women’s Nations League campaign and this summer’s tournament. There’s plenty more work to be done together before it’s time to say our farewells.”
While his departure signals the end of a successful era, the FA’s statement underlines the importance of his final months in helping England push for more silverware.
Wiegman’s Lionesses March On
Though Veurink’s absence will be felt, England manager Sarina Wiegman remains under contract until after the 2027 Women’s World Cup in Brazil. Her leadership, experience, and continuity will be vital as England navigate a post-Veurink landscape.
Together, Wiegman and Veurink have elevated England’s women’s team into global contenders, and the foundation laid is expected to serve the Lionesses well even after his departure.
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