Hibernian Football Club have announced the appointment of Dutch manager Marink Reedijk as their new head coach, stepping into the role just eight days after the dismissal of David Gray. Reedijk arrives from Belgian side SK Beveren, where he guided the team to the second‑division championship in an unbeaten season, a remarkable achievement that has attracted attention across Europe.
At 35, he brings a blend of youthful energy and seasoned experience, having previously held coaching positions within the youth academies of Ajax and West Bromwich Albion, where he honed his skills in player development and tactical innovation. In his introductory remarks, 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." He went on to highlight the ambition he perceives within the organization, noting that the club’s clear objectives were a major factor in his decision to join. "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 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 declared.
He also 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. The new manager’s first immediate task will be a pre‑season training camp at La Manga, scheduled for the upcoming Saturday, where he will meet the squad and begin implementing his ideas. His debut competitive fixture will be a Scottish Premiership away game against Dundee United on October 10, a match that will serve as an early test of his tactical approach and ability to galvanise the team. Hibs currently sit in 10th place in the Scottish Premiership, having secured only two victories from their opening seven matches.
The club’s leadership expressed optimism that Reedijk’s arrival will spark a turnaround. Sporting director Malky Mackay commented, "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 these sentiments, describing Reedijk as the "standout candidate" who impressed the selection panel 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," Gordon said. Beyond the immediate tactical considerations, Reedijk’s background suggests a broader vision for Hibernian’s future.
His time at Ajax’s famed academy exposed him to a philosophy that values technical proficiency, positional flexibility, and a possession‑based approach, while his stint at West Bromwich Albion gave him insight into the rigours of English football and the importance of physical resilience. Combining these influences, Reedijk is expected to craft a style that balances attractive, attacking play with the pragmatic defensive solidity required in the Scottish Premiership.
The manager’s commitment to player development also aligns with Hibernian’s long‑standing tradition of nurturing home‑grown talent. By integrating younger prospects into the first‑team environment and providing clear pathways for progression, Reedijk aims to create a sustainable model that can compete domestically while also making an impact in European competitions. This strategic focus could see promising academy graduates receive more minutes, while seasoned professionals are encouraged to adopt a growth mindset under his guidance. Fans and pundits alike will be watching closely as Reedijk’s ideas take shape on the training ground and later on the pitch.
The upcoming La Manga camp will be an opportunity for him to assess fitness levels, identify strengths and weaknesses, and begin instilling the high‑energy, proactive mindset he advocates. The October 10 clash with Dundee United will likely serve as a litmus test; a solid performance could boost confidence and galvanise the squad, whereas a poor showing may highlight areas needing rapid adjustment. In summary, Hibernian have placed their faith in a young, forward‑thinking coach with a proven record of success at the youth and senior levels. Marink Reedijk’s appointment signals a desire to blend ambition with continuity, to evolve the club’s footballing identity without discarding the foundations already laid.
With the backing of the board, a clear mandate, and an eager fan base, Reedijk’s tenure promises to be an intriguing chapter in the storied history of the Edinburgh club.