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 former boss David Gray. The 35‑year‑old Dutch tactician arrives from Belgian side SK Beveren, where he guided the team to the second‑division title without suffering a single defeat throughout the campaign.
Reedijk’s résumé also includes valuable experience working within the youth academies of Ajax and West Bromwich Albion, giving him a solid grounding 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 ambition he perceives at the club, adding, "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, insisting that he wants Hibs to become "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 praised the existing squad, noting, "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’s first practical task will be a pre‑season training camp at La Manga, which the team will travel to on Saturday. The camp is intended to give Reedijk a chance to assess the squad in a focused environment and to begin implementing his tactical ideas.
His inaugural competitive fixture will come on 10 October when Hibernian travel to face Dundee United in a Scottish Premiership clash. Hibernian currently sit 10th in the league table, having secured only two victories from their opening seven matches.
The club’s sporting director, Malky Mackay, welcomed 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." Mackay continued, "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 also voiced strong support for the new coach, commenting, "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’s track record in Belgium suggests he possesses the tactical acumen and motivational skills needed to turn Hibernian’s fortunes around. Winning a league unbeaten is a rare achievement that demonstrates both strategic planning and the ability to keep a squad focused over a long season. Moreover, his background in elite academies such as Ajax, renowned for producing technically gifted players, could prove invaluable for Hibs, a club that has traditionally placed a strong emphasis on nurturing young talent.
The transition from a successful stint in Belgium to the Scottish Premiership will not be without challenges. The Scottish game is known for its physical intensity, unpredictable weather conditions, and fervent fan expectations. Reedijk will need to adapt his possession‑based, high‑pressing approach to suit the more direct style often employed in Scotland, while still maintaining the core principles of proactive, energetic football he espouses. Beyond tactics, Reedijk’s appointment signals a broader strategic direction for Hibernian.
The club appears to be prioritising a blend of experienced leadership and a clear developmental pathway for younger players. By investing in a manager who values both collective cohesion and individual growth, Hibs aim to build a sustainable model that can compete not only domestically but also on the European stage. Fans will be watching closely as Reedijk’s first weeks unfold.
The La Manga camp will provide early indicators of his training methods, his communication style with the squad, and how quickly he can instil his philosophy. The upcoming match against Dundee United will be a litmus test for his ability to translate ideas into results under pressure. In summary, Marink Reedijk steps into a Hibernian side eager for a fresh direction after a disappointing start to the season. With a proven unbeaten record in Belgium, a pedigree in elite youth development, and a clear vision for an assertive, high‑energy playing style, he arrives with the tools to reinvigorate the club.
Backed by the sporting director, the executive chairman, and a supportive board, Reedijk’s task is to harness the existing talent, reinforce the squad where needed, and guide Hibs back up the Premiership table while laying the groundwork for long‑term success. The journey begins at La Manga, and the eyes of the Edinburgh faithful will be firmly fixed on the outcomes that follow.