Hibernian Football Club have officially confirmed 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 highlighted his tactical acumen and leadership qualities. Reedijk’s résumé includes valuable experience working within the youth structures of two well‑known clubs – Ajax in the Netherlands and West Bromwich Albion in England.
Those academy positions allowed him to develop a keen eye for nurturing talent, a skill set that Hibs hope will translate into success at senior level. Speaking after his appointment, 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 underline the 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. 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." Reedijk also praised the existing squad, noting that there is already a solid foundation to build upon. "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 duties will involve a pre‑season training camp at La Manga in Spain, scheduled for Saturday, where he will meet the players and begin implementing his ideas. Hibernian’s inaugural match under Reedijk’s stewardship is set for 10 October, when they travel to face Dundee United in a Scottish Premiership fixture.
At the time of the announcement, Hibs sit in 10th place in the Scottish Premiership, having secured only two victories from their opening seven league games. The club’s hierarchy hopes that Reedijk’s fresh perspective and proactive approach can reverse the early‑season slump. Sporting director Malky Mackay welcomed the appointment, describing it as a pivotal moment for the club.
"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 explained. He highlighted Reedijk’s preferred style of play, noting that his sides are typically "proactive, high energy and dynamic".
Mackay also emphasized the Dutchman’s reputation for developing individual players and fostering a cohesive group 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," he added. Executive chairman Ian Gordon echoed these sentiments, calling Reedijk the standout candidate in a competitive search.
"Marink 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," Gordon said. Gordon confirmed that the club will back Reedijk fully, pledging continued investment in the squad to provide the manager with the resources needed for success. "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," the chairman concluded. Beyond the immediate tactical considerations, Reedijk’s arrival is expected to bring a fresh cultural shift within Hibernian.
His background in elite academies suggests a long‑term focus on youth development, potentially creating pathways for promising Scottish talent to break into the first team. Moreover, his experience in Belgium, where clubs often blend technical skill with physical resilience, could introduce new training methodologies and match‑day strategies that align with modern European trends.
Fans have already taken to social media to voice their optimism, with many hoping that Reedijk’s proven record of unbeaten success will translate into a more consistent point‑gathering run in the league. The upcoming La Manga camp will be closely watched, as it offers the first glimpse of how the manager plans to integrate his philosophy with the existing squad dynamics. In summary, Hibernian have taken a decisive step by appointing Marink Reedijk, a young yet seasoned coach with a blend of academy expertise and senior‑level triumphs. The club’s leadership believes his proactive, high‑energy approach aligns with their vision for growth, and they are prepared to support him financially and structurally.
All eyes now turn to the La Manga training camp and the October clash with Dundee United, where Reedijk will have his first real test in Scottish football.