Hibernian Football Club have announced the appointment of Dutch coach Marink Reedijk as their new manager, stepping into the role just eight days after the departure of former boss David Gray. Reedijk arrives from Belgian side SK Beveren, where he guided the team to the second‑division championship while remaining unbeaten throughout the campaign. At 35, he brings a blend of youthful energy and seasoned experience, having previously held developmental positions within the youth academies of Ajax and West Bromwich Albion. In his introductory press conference Reedijk expressed his enthusiasm for the challenge, stating, "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 highlight the ambition he perceives within the organization, adding, "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." Reedijk outlined his footballing philosophy, emphasizing a desire for an assertive, courageous, and high‑intensity style of play. "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 said.
He also praised the existing squad, noting that there is "quality and potential" already present and that the groundwork laid by previous staff provides a solid platform. His immediate priority, according to Reedijk, is to become familiar with each player, build on the foundations already in place, and ensure the team is prepared for their upcoming fixture against Dundee United. The new manager will travel with the squad to a pre‑season training camp in La Manga, Spain, on Saturday. The first competitive test under his stewardship will be a Scottish Premiership away match at Dundee United, scheduled for 10 October.
Hibs currently sit in 10th place in the league, having secured only two victories from their opening seven matches, a record that underscores the urgency of a swift turnaround. Hibernian’s sporting director, former player Malky Mackay, welcomed the appointment, describing it as a "exciting moment for Hibernian Football Club." He explained that the recruitment process began with a clear vision of the type of side the club wishes to build and the attributes required in a manager. "Marink's football philosophy, his work with players and his leadership style are strongly aligned with that," Mackay said. He praised Reedijk’s proactive, high‑energy, and dynamic approach, adding that his capacity to develop individual talent while fostering a cohesive collective environment makes him an ideal fit.
Mackay emphasized that the club is not seeking a radical shift in strategy, but rather an evolution of its existing footballing direction, and he believes Reedijk is well‑suited to drive that progression. Executive chairman Ian Gordon also voiced strong support for the new coach. "Marink was the standout candidate. He impressed everyone involved in the process with his clarity, intelligence and drive," Gordon remarked.
He noted that Reedijk shares the club’s ambition to nurture players and consistently compete at the top tier of Scottish football and, eventually, on the European stage. Gordon pledged the club’s continued investment in the squad to provide Reedijk with the resources needed for success, and he extended a warm welcome to Reedijk and his family. Reedijk’s background includes a successful spell in Belgium where he masterminded SK Beveren’s unbeaten run to claim the second‑division title, a feat that demonstrated his tactical acumen and ability to motivate a squad over a full season.
His earlier roles within the Ajax academy exposed him to a philosophy of technical excellence and player development, while his time at West Bromwich Albion allowed him to adapt those principles to the English game, working with both youth prospects and senior professionals. The appointment arrives at a pivotal moment for Hibernian. After a sluggish start to the season, the club’s supporters are eager for a fresh direction that can restore confidence and deliver results. Reedijk’s promise of an assertive, high‑pressing style aligns with the fans’ desire for entertaining, forward‑moving football.
Moreover, his emphasis on building a strong team ethic and developing individual players resonates with Hibs’ long‑standing tradition of nurturing talent. Looking ahead, the La Manga training camp will serve as a crucial period for Reedijk to implement his ideas, assess the squad’s strengths and weaknesses, and begin shaping the tactical framework he envisions. The upcoming match against Dundee United will be his first real test, offering an early indicator of how quickly his concepts can translate into on‑field performance. In summary, Hibernian have taken a decisive step by appointing Marink Reedijk, a 35‑year‑old coach with a proven record of success in Belgium and a solid foundation in youth development at elite clubs.
Backed by the club’s hierarchy and embraced by the fan base, Reedijk is set to embark on a mission to revitalize Hibs’ fortunes, instill a bold playing identity, and guide the team back up the Scottish Premiership table.