Hibernian Football Club have officially announced the appointment of Marink Reedijk as their new manager, stepping into the role after the dismissal of David Gray eight days earlier. The Dutch coach arrives from Belgian side SK Beveren, where he guided the team to the second‑division championship in an unbeaten season, a remarkable achievement that highlighted his tactical acumen and leadership qualities. At just 35, Reedijk brings a blend of youthful energy and seasoned experience. Prior to his success in Belgium, he spent valuable time working within the youth structures of two well‑known clubs: Ajax, where he absorbed the famed Dutch philosophy of total football, and West Bromwich Albion, where he helped develop young English talent.
These academy roles have given him a solid grounding in player development, a skill set that Hibs hope will translate into a more dynamic and progressive first‑team style. In his introductory press conference, Reedijk expressed genuine enthusiasm for his new challenge: "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." He went on to describe the club’s ambition, noting that he could already sense the clarity of the organization’s goals.
"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," he said.
Reedijk outlined his footballing vision, emphasizing a desire for an assertive, brave, and intense team that plays with purpose. "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," he declared.
He praised the existing squad, acknowledging the quality and potential already present. "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," he added, signaling that his immediate focus would be on preparing the side for the upcoming Scottish Premiership fixture at Dundee United on October 10. Reedijk’s arrival coincides with a pre‑season training camp in La Manga, Spain, scheduled to begin on Saturday.
The camp will give the new manager an opportunity to assess the squad in a focused environment, implement his ideas, and foster team cohesion before the first competitive match under his stewardship. Hibernian currently sit in 10th place in the Scottish Premiership, having secured only two victories from their opening seven league games.
The club’s recent form has prompted a desire for a fresh direction, and the board believes Reedijk is the right person to steer the team back onto a winning trajectory. Sporting director 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." Mackay highlighted Reedijk’s proactive, high‑energy, and dynamic approach, noting his proven ability to develop individuals while fostering a strong collective spirit. "His teams are proactive, high energy and dynamic.
What also stands out is his ability to develop individuals and create a strong collective environment," Mackay said. He added that the hiring does not signal a radical shift in Hibs' football strategy, but rather an evolution of the existing plan, with Reedijk seen as the ideal candidate to carry it forward.
Executive chairman Ian Gordon echoed these sentiments, describing Reedijk as the standout candidate throughout the selection process. "Marink was the standout candidate. He impressed everyone involved in the process with his clarity, intelligence and drive," Gordon remarked.
He emphasized the club’s shared ambition to nurture talent and consistently challenge for top‑flight honors in Scotland and, eventually, Europe. "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," Gordon concluded.
Beyond the immediate tactical and strategic implications, Reedijk’s appointment signals a broader commitment by Hibernian to blend continental coaching expertise with the club’s traditional Scottish roots. His background in Dutch football, renowned for its emphasis on technical skill, positional play, and attacking fluidity, could introduce fresh ideas that resonate with the club’s supporters, who cherish both heritage and progressive ambition.
As the team prepares for its La Manga camp, fans will be eager to see how Reedijk translates his unbeaten success at SK Beveren into the competitive environment of the Scottish Premiership. The upcoming match against Dundee United will serve as an early litmus test for his methods, squad morale, and the adaptability of the players to his demands. If the initial results are positive, it could set the tone for a season in which Hibs aim to climb the table, secure a stronger foothold in European competition, and re‑establish themselves as a formidable force in Scottish football.
In summary, Hibernian have taken a decisive step by appointing Marink Reedijk, a young yet experienced manager with a proven track record in youth development and unbeaten league triumphs. With the backing of the board, sporting director, and executive chairman, Reedijk is poised to implement an assertive, high‑energy style of play, nurture existing talent, and guide the club toward a more ambitious future. The forthcoming training camp and the first league encounter will provide the first concrete glimpse of his impact, and supporters will be watching closely to see whether the new era begins with the vigor and success they hope for.