Hibernian Football Club have officially announced the appointment of Marink Reedijk as their new manager, stepping into the role just eight days after the club terminated the contract of former boss David Gray. The Dutch‑born 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 ability to sustain high performance over a full campaign.
At 35, Reedijk brings a blend of youthful energy and seasoned experience. Prior to his success in Belgium, he spent valuable time developing young talent in the academies of Ajax and West Bromwich Albion, two institutions renowned for their emphasis on technical skill and player development.
Those formative years have equipped him with a deep understanding of nurturing prospects and integrating them into senior squads, a quality that aligns well with Hibs' long‑term vision. In his introductory press conference Reedijk expressed genuine enthusiasm for the challenge ahead. "I am honoured to be appointed manager of Hibernian Football Club," he said. "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 note the clear ambition he perceives within the organization: "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 proactive and courageous 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 praised the existing squad, acknowledging the quality and potential already present, and promised to build on that foundation: "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." The new manager will soon travel with the first‑team group to a pre‑season training camp in La Manga, Spain, scheduled to begin on Saturday. That trip will serve as an intensive period for Reedijk to assess the squad, implement his training methods, and foster cohesion among the players. His inaugural competitive fixture will be an away Scottish Premiership match against Dundee United on 10 October, a test that will offer an early indication of how his ideas translate onto the pitch. Hibs currently sit in 10th place in the Scottish Premiership, having secured just two victories from their opening seven league games.
The club’s recent form has been inconsistent, and the board hopes that Reedijk’s arrival will inject fresh impetus and a clearer tactical direction. 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 added that Reedijk’s teams are known for being proactive, high‑energy, and dynamic, and that his ability to develop individual talent while fostering a strong collective spirit was a key factor in the decision.
Executive chairman Ian Gordon also voiced strong support for the new coach, describing him as the standout candidate throughout the selection process. "He impressed everyone involved in the process with his clarity, intelligence and drive," Gordon said. "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 arrives at a pivotal moment for Hibernian.
The club is seeking to re‑establish itself as a regular contender for European qualification while also maintaining a reputation for producing home‑grown talent. By combining his experience in youth development with a proven record of achieving results in senior competition, Reedijk is positioned to bridge those objectives. Beyond the immediate tactical considerations, Reedijk’s arrival is expected to influence the club’s recruitment strategy.
His network in the Netherlands and Belgium could open pathways for promising young players to join Hibs, while his familiarity with the British game, gained during his stint at West Bromwich Albion, should aid in identifying seasoned professionals who can make an instant impact in the Scottish Premiership. The upcoming La Manga camp will be crucial for establishing the team’s playing principles. Reedijk is likely to focus on high‑pressing, quick transitions, and a disciplined defensive structure—elements that defined his successful season with SK Beveren. By instilling these concepts early, he hopes to create a clear identity that resonates with both the players and the passionate Hibs fanbase.
Supporters will be watching closely as the new manager implements his vision. Hibernian’s supporters are known for their fervent loyalty and deep connection to the club’s heritage, and Reedijk’s acknowledgment of that passion suggests he intends to build a strong rapport with the fan community.
Engaging with supporters, delivering an attractive style of football, and achieving positive results will be essential for cementing his place at Easter Road. In summary, Marink Reedijk’s hiring marks a new chapter for Hibernian FC. With a blend of youth‑development expertise, recent championship experience, and a clear, ambitious footballing philosophy, he is tasked with revitalising a side that has struggled for consistency early in the season. The forthcoming training camp, the first league test against Dundee United, and the backing of the club’s hierarchy all set the stage for an intriguing season ahead as Reedijk strives to fulfill the aspirations of the club, its players, and its devoted supporters.