Hibernian Football Club have confirmed the appointment of Dutch coach Marink Reedijk as their new manager, stepping into the role just eight days after the dismissal of former boss David Gray. Reedijk, who is 35, 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 ability to foster a winning mentality. Before his success in Belgium, Reedijk built a solid foundation working within the youth academies of two well‑known clubs: Ajax in the Netherlands and West Bromwich Albion in England. Those experiences gave him insight into player development, modern training methods and a philosophy centred on proactive, high‑energy football.
Speaking at the 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 the style of play he intends to instil: "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 in La Manga, Spain, which the squad will attend on Saturday. The camp is designed to allow the new manager to assess the squad, implement his tactical framework and foster team cohesion ahead of his inaugural competitive match – a Scottish Premiership away fixture at Dundee United scheduled for 10 October. Hibernian currently sit in 10th place in the Scottish Premiership, having secured just two victories from their opening seven games.
The club’s recent form has prompted a swift managerial change, and the board hopes Reedijk can reverse the trend and steer the team back into the upper half of the table. 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 added, "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 brings a modern, possession‑based approach tempered by a focus on defensive solidity. At SK Beveren, he employed a 4‑3‑3 system that emphasized quick transitions, pressing high up the pitch and encouraging full‑backs to contribute to the attack.
His time at Ajax’s academy reinforced the importance of technical proficiency and intelligent movement, while his stint at West Brom exposed him to the physical demands of English football. By blending these influences, Reedijk aims to create a balanced side capable of both dominating possession and being resilient against counter‑attacks. The Hibs squad already possesses several promising talents, including young midfielders who have shown flair in limited opportunities, and a striking partnership that has been productive but inconsistent.
Reedijk has indicated that his immediate priority is to assess fitness levels, understand each player's strengths, and determine how best to integrate new tactical concepts without overwhelming the group. In addition to on‑field responsibilities, Reedijk will work closely with the club’s scouting network to identify potential signings that fit his style. The sporting director has hinted that the upcoming transfer window could see a few strategic acquisitions, particularly in areas where depth is lacking, such as central defence and creative midfield. Fans can expect a period of adjustment as the new manager implements his ideas, but the club’s leadership is confident that his proven track record in youth development and his recent unbeaten championship will translate into tangible improvements for Hibernian.
The upcoming La Manga camp will serve as a crucial laboratory for testing formations, set‑piece routines and the overall team ethos. Overall, the appointment of Marink Reedijk signals Hibernian’s commitment to a forward‑thinking, ambitious project. With a clear vision from the board, a manager eager to imprint his philosophy, and a squad hungry for success, the club hopes to climb the Scottish Premiership ladder, re‑ignite the passion of its supporters, and eventually compete on a European stage once more.