Hibernian Football Club have officially announced the appointment of Marink Reedijk as their new manager, stepping into the role just eight days after the dismissal of former boss David Gray. The 35‑year‑old Dutch coach arrives from Belgian side SK Beveren, where he guided the team to the second‑division championship in an unbeaten season, a feat that underscored his tactical acumen and leadership qualities. Reedijk’s résumé also includes valuable experience in youth development, having held academy positions at Dutch giants Ajax and later at English club West Bromwich Albion. Those roles have given him a solid foundation in nurturing talent, a skill set that Hibs hope will translate into a more dynamic and cohesive first‑team unit.
Speaking at a press conference, Reedijk expressed his enthusiasm for the 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. 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 went on to outline his footballing philosophy, emphasizing a desire for an assertive, brave, and intense 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. 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’s first task will be a pre‑season training camp at La Manga, Spain, which the squad will attend on Saturday.
The camp is intended to give the new manager a chance to assess the squad, install his tactical ideas, and foster team cohesion before his debut match – a Scottish Premiership away fixture against Dundee United scheduled for 10 October. At the time of the announcement, Hibs sit 10th in the Scottish Premiership table, having secured only two victories from their opening seven league games. The club’s recent form has been inconsistent, and supporters are eager for a fresh direction that can revive their fortunes and restore confidence.
Sporting director Malky Mackay praised the appointment, saying: "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 echoed those sentiments, adding: "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 appointment comes at a pivotal moment for Hibernian. The club has a proud heritage, having won the Scottish Cup three times and producing notable talents such as Alan Stubbs and Darren Fletcher. Yet in recent seasons the team has struggled to break into the top tier of the league and secure European qualification.
By bringing in a manager with a proven record of success in both senior competition and youth development, the board hopes to create a sustainable model that blends immediate results with long‑term growth. In addition to his unbeaten title with SK Beveren, Reedijk’s time at Ajax’s academy exposed him to a possession‑based, attacking philosophy that emphasizes technical skill and intelligent movement. At West Brom, he worked closely with the first‑team coaching staff, gaining insight into the physical demands of the English game and the importance of adaptability.
These varied experiences should equip him to tailor his approach to the Scottish Premiership, a league known for its intensity, physicality, and passionate fan bases. Fans will be watching closely as Reedijk implements his vision.
Early indicators will include changes in training intensity, the integration of younger players into matchday squads, and a more forward‑looking style of play that seeks to dominate possession while maintaining defensive solidity. The upcoming La Manga camp will be a crucial period for establishing these principles, as will the opening league fixture against Dundee United, which will serve as a litmus test for the new manager’s impact. If Reedijk can harness the existing talent, instill confidence, and attract new signings that fit his system, Hibernian could see a rapid turnaround. The club’s leadership has made it clear that they are prepared to back him financially and structurally, providing the resources needed to compete for top‑six positions and, ultimately, a place in European competition.
The appointment has also generated excitement beyond the club’s immediate circle. Scottish football pundits have noted that bringing in a young, continental manager reflects a broader trend of clubs seeking fresh ideas from abroad, similar to the recent hires at Celtic and Rangers. Reedijk’s success could inspire other Scottish sides to look beyond traditional domestic options when searching for innovative leadership. In summary, Marink Reedijk’s arrival marks a new chapter for Hibernian.
With a blend of unbeaten championship experience, youth development expertise, and a clear, ambitious vision, he is poised to reshape the team’s identity and performance. The next few weeks, especially the La Manga camp and the Dundee United match, will be crucial in determining whether his philosophy can translate into tangible results on the pitch. Supporters, staff, and the wider Scottish football community will be watching intently as the 35‑year‑old Dutchman begins his tenure at Easter Road.