Hibernian Football Club have officially named Dutch tactician Marink Reedijk as their new manager, stepping into the role just eight days after the dismissal of former boss David Gray. Reedijk arrives from Belgian side SK Beveren, where he guided the team to the second‑division championship in an unbeaten season, a remarkable achievement that highlighted his tactical acumen and leadership qualities. At 35, Reedijk brings a blend of youthful energy and seasoned experience.
Prior to his success in Belgium, he spent time developing young talent in the academies of two well‑known clubs: Ajax, renowned for its emphasis on technical skill and possession‑based football, and West Bromwich Albion, where he honed his ability to nurture players transitioning from youth to senior level. These formative roles have given him a deep understanding of player development, a factor that Hibs’ hierarchy believes will be crucial for the club’s long‑term ambitions. In his introductory press conference, Reedijk expressed his enthusiasm for the appointment: "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 his footballing philosophy, emphasizing an assertive 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." Reedijk also praised the existing squad, noting that 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 challenge will be a pre‑season training camp at La Manga, Spain, scheduled for Saturday.
The squad will travel together to fine‑tune tactics, improve fitness, and integrate Reedijk’s ideas before his inaugural competitive match – a Scottish Premiership away fixture against Dundee United on 10 October. Hibernian currently sit in 10th place in the league, having secured only two victories from their opening seven games, a record that underscores the urgency of turning the season around. Sporting director Malky Mackay welcomed the appointment, describing it as "an exciting moment for Hibernian Football Club." He explained that the club entered the recruitment process with a clear blueprint for the type of manager they required, focusing on a proactive, high‑energy, and dynamic approach.
"Marink's football philosophy, his work with players and his leadership style are strongly aligned with that," Mackay said. He added that Reedijk’s ability to develop individuals while fostering a cohesive collective environment was a decisive factor. "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, stating that Reedijk emerged as the "standout candidate" throughout the selection process.
Gordon highlighted Reedijk’s clarity, intelligence and drive, qualities that resonated with the club’s board. "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," Gordon affirmed.
Reedijk’s appointment arrives at a pivotal juncture for Hibs. The club has a storied past, including historic cup triumphs and a reputation for nurturing talent, but recent seasons have seen fluctuating league performances.
By bringing in a manager who combines a proven winning record, experience in youth development, and a clear, attacking vision, Hibernian hope to re‑ignite their competitive edge both domestically and, eventually, on the European stage. Beyond the immediate tactical adjustments, Reedijk is expected to influence recruitment, scouting, and the overall footballing culture at Easter Road. His background at Ajax suggests a preference for technically proficient, possession‑oriented players, while his time at West Brom indicates an appreciation for physical resilience and adaptability. Fans can anticipate a blend of these attributes as the manager seeks to shape a squad capable of delivering consistent results.
The upcoming La Manga camp will serve as a testing ground for his ideas. Training sessions are likely to focus on high‑pressing patterns, quick transitions, and set‑piece routines, all hallmarks of Reedijk’s previous teams.
The manager will also use this period to assess individual player strengths, identify areas for improvement, and begin the process of building trust and communication with the squad. Looking ahead, the first match against Dundee United will be a litmus test for Reedijk’s impact.
A positive result could boost morale and provide a foundation for the subsequent fixtures, while a setback would underline the challenges ahead. Nonetheless, the club’s leadership remains confident that the strategic direction set by Reedijk will gradually translate into improved performances and a climb up the Premiership table. In summary, Hibernian have taken a decisive step by appointing Marink Reedijk, a 35‑year‑old Dutch manager with a winning pedigree in Belgium and a strong background in youth development at elite academies. His vision of an assertive, passionate, and purpose‑driven team aligns with the club’s ambitions, and the support from the sporting director and chairman underscores a unified commitment to progress.
The upcoming training camp and the October 10 fixture will mark the beginning of a new chapter for the Edinburgh side, as they strive to fulfill the aspirations of their supporters and re‑establish themselves as a force in Scottish football.