Hibernian Football Club have confirmed the appointment of Marink Reedijk as their new manager, stepping into the role just eight days after the dismissal of David Gray. The 35-year-old Dutch tactician arrives from Belgian side SK Beveren, where he guided the team to the second‑division championship without suffering a single defeat. Reedijk’s résumé also includes valuable experience in youth development, having held coaching positions within the academies of Ajax and West Bromwich Albion.
Speaking at the press conference, Reedijk said, "I am honoured to be appointed manager of Hibernian Football Club. This is one of the biggest clubs in Scottish football, with a unique history, identity and supporter base, and I am excited to experience that passion and connection first‑hand. I can feel the ambition and see the clarity of what the club is trying to achieve. That was a big part of what attracted me here.
I want us to be an assertive team – brave, intense and committed. A team that gives everything, plays with purpose and gives our supporters something to really get behind. There is quality and potential in the squad, and good work has already been done. My first job is to get to know the players, build on those foundations and make sure we are ready for Dundee United." Reedijk will join the squad for a pre‑season training camp in La Manga, Spain, beginning Saturday, and his inaugural competitive match will be the Scottish Premiership away fixture against Dundee United on 10 October.
Hibs currently sit 10th in the league table, having secured only two victories from their opening seven games, a position that underscores the urgency of the new manager’s task. Hibernian’s sporting director, former player Malky Mackay, praised the appointment, stating, "Marink's appointment is an exciting moment for Hibernian Football Club. We began this process with a clear idea of the type of team we want to continue to build and the qualities we wanted from our next manager.
Marink's football philosophy, his work with players and his leadership style are strongly aligned with that. His teams are proactive, high‑energy and dynamic.
What also stands out is his ability to develop individuals and create a strong collective environment. This is not about changing the direction of our football strategy.
It is about continuing to evolve it, and we believe Marink is an excellent fit to take the team forward." Executive chairman Ian Gordon added, "Marink was the standout candidate. He impressed everyone involved in the process with his clarity, intelligence and drive. He shares our ambition to develop players and consistently compete at the top end of Scottish football and in Europe. Marink has our backing, and we will continue to invest in the team to give him the best possible platform to succeed.
We're delighted to welcome Marink and his family to the club." Reedijk’s track record in Belgium is particularly noteworthy. While managing SK Beveren, he orchestrated an unbeaten run that culminated in the club clinching the Belgian First Division B title, a feat that demonstrated both tactical acumen and the ability to maintain squad morale over a demanding season.
His time at Ajax’s academy exposed him to the famed Dutch total‑football philosophy, emphasizing positional interchange, technical proficiency, and a strong pressing game. At West Brom, he worked closely with senior professionals, honing his skills in player development and match preparation at the highest levels of English football. The new manager’s immediate priorities will include assessing the current roster, identifying areas where reinforcement is needed, and instilling a clear playing identity that reflects his proactive, high‑intensity approach. He has already highlighted the importance of building relationships with the players, understanding their strengths and weaknesses, and ensuring the squad is mentally and physically prepared for the upcoming fixtures, starting with the crucial test at Dundee United.
Fans can expect a period of transition as Reedijk implements his training methods and tactical systems. His emphasis on bravery, intensity, and commitment suggests a shift towards a more aggressive pressing style, with quick transitions and an emphasis on winning the ball high up the pitch. This could see Hibs adopt a more attacking mindset, aiming to produce entertaining football that resonates with the club’s passionate supporter base. Beyond the pitch, Reedijk’s appointment signals Hibernian’s broader strategic intent to blend youth development with immediate competitive ambition.
By drawing on his experience at Ajax’s academy, the club hopes to nurture home‑grown talent while also attracting players who fit his dynamic style. The management team has indicated that investment will continue in scouting, facilities, and player acquisition, providing Reedijk with the resources needed to build a squad capable of challenging for higher league positions and, eventually, European qualification. In summary, Marink Reedijk arrives at Easter Road with a proven unbeaten record in Belgium, a solid foundation in youth coaching, and a clear vision for an assertive, high‑energy brand of football.
The club’s hierarchy, from sporting director Malky Mackay to chairman Ian Gordon, have expressed confidence that his philosophy aligns with Hibernian’s long‑term objectives. As the team prepares for its La Manga camp and the upcoming clash with Dundee United, supporters will be watching closely to see how quickly Reedijk can translate his ideas into results and reignite the club’s fortunes in the Scottish Premiership.