Hibernian Football Club have announced the appointment of Dutch coach Marink Reedijk as their new manager, stepping into the role just eight days after the dismissal of David Gray. Reedijk arrives from Belgian side SK Beveren, where he guided the team to the second‑division title in an unbeaten season, showcasing his ability to build winning squads. At 35, he brings a blend of youthful energy and seasoned experience, having previously served in youth development capacities at Ajax and West Bromwich Albion, where he honed his skills in nurturing talent and implementing progressive playing philosophies.
In his introductory press conference, Reedijk expressed his enthusiasm for the job, 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 organization, noting that the club’s vision was 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 ethos, emphasizing a desire to create an assertive, brave, and intense side that plays with purpose and gives the fans something to rally behind. "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 also praised the existing squad, acknowledging the quality and potential already present.
"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, signalling that his immediate focus will be on familiarising himself with the team ahead of the upcoming Scottish Premiership fixture at Dundee United on October 10. Reedijk’s arrival will be swiftly followed by a pre‑season training camp in La Manga, Spain, scheduled for Saturday. The camp is intended to provide the new manager with an intensive environment to assess the squad, implement initial tactical ideas, and foster cohesion among the players.
This trip marks Reedijk’s first hands‑on work with the Hibs first team and will set the tone for his tenure. Hibernian currently sit 10th in the Scottish Premiership table, having secured just two victories from their opening seven matches. The club’s recent form has been inconsistent, prompting the board to act decisively in seeking fresh leadership. Sporting director Malky Mackay praised the appointment, describing it as an "exciting moment for Hibernian Football Club." He explained that the recruitment process was guided by a clear blueprint of the type of football the club wishes to play and the attributes required in a manager.
"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 said. Mackay further highlighted Reedijk’s preferred style, noting that his teams are typically proactive, high‑energy, and dynamic.
He also commended Reedijk’s reputation for developing individual players and fostering a strong collective spirit. "His teams are proactive, high energy and dynamic. What also stands out is his ability to develop individuals and create a strong collective environment," Mackay added.
He clarified that the appointment is not about overturning the club’s existing football strategy but rather about evolving it, with Reedijk seen as the ideal figure to take Hibs forward. Executive chairman Ian Gordon echoed these sentiments, calling Reedijk the "standout candidate" after a thorough selection process. Gordon highlighted Reedijk’s clarity, intelligence, and drive as key factors that impressed the board.
"He shares our ambition to develop players and consistently compete at the top end of Scottish football and in Europe," Gordon said. He assured that the club will continue to invest in the squad to provide Reedijk 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," Gordon concluded. The appointment of Reedijk signals a new chapter for Hibernian, with the club aiming to blend its rich heritage with modern, attacking football. Fans can expect a period of transition as the new manager implements his ideas, but the optimism expressed by both the sporting director and the chairman suggests a shared belief that this partnership will elevate Hibernian’s competitive standing domestically and potentially in European competitions.
As the team prepares for its La Manga camp and the forthcoming clash with Dundee United, supporters will be watching closely to see how Reedijk’s vision translates onto the pitch and whether his emphasis on bravery, intensity, and collective purpose will reignite the club’s fortunes.