Hibernian Football Club have announced the appointment of Dutch manager Marink Reedijk as their new head coach, stepping into the role after the dismissal of David Gray eight days earlier. Reedijk, who is 35, arrives from Belgian side SK Beveren, where he guided the team to the second‑division championship without suffering a single defeat. His résumé also includes stints in youth development at Ajax and West Bromwich Albion, giving him a solid foundation in both player cultivation and senior team tactics.
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 ambition he perceives within the organisation, 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, 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 said his immediate priority would be to get to know each player, build on the work already done, and ensure the team is prepared for the upcoming match against Dundee United. The new manager will travel with the squad to a pre‑season camp at La Manga in Spain on Saturday, using the intensive training environment to implement his ideas and assess the squad.
His first competitive test will be a Scottish Premiership away fixture at Dundee United on October 10. Hibs currently sit in 10th place in the league, having secured only two victories from their opening seven matches, making the need for a swift turnaround evident.
Hibernian’s sporting director, former player Malky Mackay, welcomed the appointment, describing it as an "exciting moment" for the club. Mackay explained that the recruitment process began with a clear vision of the type of team Hibs wants to develop 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 added that Reedijk's teams are known for being proactive, high‑energy and dynamic, and that his ability to nurture individual talent while fostering a cohesive collective environment stood out as a key strength.
Mackay also clarified that the hiring does not signal a radical shift in Hibs' footballing strategy but rather a continuation and evolution of the existing approach. "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 affirmed. Executive chairman Ian Gordon echoed these sentiments, calling Reedijk the "standout candidate" after a thorough selection process.
Gordon praised Reedijk's clarity, intelligence and drive, noting that he shares the club's ambition to develop players and consistently compete at the top end of Scottish football and, eventually, in European competitions. "Marink has our backing, and we will continue to invest in the team to give him the best possible platform to succeed," Gordon said.
He also extended a warm welcome to Reedijk and his family, emphasizing the club’s commitment to supporting them as they settle into Edinburgh. The appointment arrives at a crucial juncture for Hibernian. The club’s early season form has been inconsistent, and the fan base is eager for a resurgence.
Reedijk’s unbeaten record in Belgium, combined with his experience in elite youth academies, suggests he possesses both the tactical acumen and developmental insight needed to revitalize the squad. His emphasis on an assertive, purpose‑driven style aligns with the supporters’ desire for an entertaining and competitive team.
Beyond the immediate tactical adjustments, Reedijk is expected to bring a modern, data‑driven approach to training and match preparation, drawing on his exposure to advanced analytics during his time at Ajax. This could see Hibs adopting new performance metrics, video analysis techniques, and individualized conditioning programs aimed at maximizing each player's potential.
The La Manga camp will serve as a practical laboratory for Reedijk to test his ideas, experiment with formations, and gauge the squad’s adaptability. The proximity of the first league match against Dundee United provides a clear benchmark for progress; a strong performance could catalyze momentum and restore confidence among players and supporters alike. In summary, Hibernian have taken a decisive step by appointing Marink Reedijk, a young yet accomplished manager with a proven winning record and a reputation for developing talent. The club’s leadership expresses confidence that his philosophy and energy will align with Hibs’ long‑term objectives, aiming to lift the team out of its current mid‑table position and set a foundation for sustained success both domestically and in future European endeavors.