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 David Gray. Reedijk, a 35‑year‑old Dutch tactician, arrives from Belgian side SK Beveren, where he guided the team to the second‑division championship while remaining unbeaten throughout the campaign. His résumé also includes valuable experience working within the youth academies of Ajax and West Bromwich Albion, where he honed his skills in player development and modern coaching methods. In his introductory press conference, Reedijk expressed his enthusiasm for the challenge, stating, "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 clear ambition he perceives within the club, noting that this vision was a key 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, 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," he explained.
He praised the existing squad, acknowledging the quality and potential already present, and pledged to get to know each player personally. "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, referring to his inaugural competitive fixture.
The new manager will join the squad for a pre‑season training camp in La Manga, Spain, beginning Saturday. This camp is intended to accelerate his integration with the team and to implement his tactical concepts before the first match, a Scottish Premiership away game against Dundee United scheduled for 10 October. Hibernian currently sit 10th in the Scottish Premiership table, having secured just two victories from their opening seven league games.
The club hopes that Reedijk’s arrival will spark an upturn in form and restore confidence among the fan base. Sporting director Malky Mackay welcomed the appointment, describing it as an "exciting moment for Hibernian Football Club." He explained that the recruitment process began with a clear picture of the type of football the club wishes to play and the attributes required in a manager.
"Marink's football philosophy, his work with players and his leadership style are strongly aligned with that," Mackay said. He praised Reedijk’s proactive, high‑energy, and dynamic approach, as well as his proven ability to develop individual talent while fostering a cohesive 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," Mackay added. Executive chairman Ian Gordon also voiced strong support for the new head coach, calling him the "standout candidate" after a rigorous selection process. Gordon highlighted Reedijk’s clarity, intelligence and drive, noting that these qualities resonated with the club’s leadership.
"He shares our ambition to develop players and consistently compete at the top end of Scottish football and in Europe," Gordon remarked. He affirmed that the board will continue to invest in the squad to provide Reedijk with the resources needed to succeed.
"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 concluded. Beyond the immediate tactical considerations, Reedijk’s appointment signals a broader strategic shift for Hibs, aiming to blend the club’s storied tradition with modern, progressive footballing ideas. His background in youth development suggests a potential emphasis on promoting academy prospects to the first team, a pathway that could align with the club’s long‑term financial sustainability and competitive aspirations.
Moreover, his unbeaten record in Belgium hints at a capacity to instill a winning mentality, even under pressure. Fans and pundits alike will be watching closely as Reedijk embarks on his first weeks in Edinburgh, particularly how quickly he can translate his philosophy into results on the pitch. The upcoming La Manga camp will be crucial for establishing training routines, tactical drills, and building rapport with the players.
The subsequent match against Dundee United will serve as an early litmus test for his impact. In summary, Hibernian have taken a decisive step by appointing Marink Reedijk, a young but experienced Dutch coach, to steer the club forward. With a clear vision, supportive hierarchy, and a squad eager to improve, the stage is set for a potentially transformative season for the Edinburgh side.