Hibernian announce Marink Reedijk as new manager
Hibernian have announced the appointment of Dutchman Marink Reedijk as their new manager.
The 35-year-old succeeds David Gray in the Easter Road hot-seat after two fruitful seasons in charge of Beveren, culminating in an eye-catching Belgian second-tier title triumph last term in which his side completed the campaign undefeated.
Reedijk previously worked in academy and development roles, including at Ajax and West Brom, before holding senior coaching positions at KSV Roeselare, Vitesse, RSCA Futures and then Beveren.
The new manager will be assisted at Easter Road by fellow Dutchman Rogier Molhoek. Reedijk will travel with the Hibs squad to La Manga on Saturday for a training camp as he prepares for his first match in charge away to Dundee United on October 10.
“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,” Reedijk told Hibs’ website.
“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.
“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.
“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.”
Gray was sacked last week after losing four of his opening six William Hill Premiership matches this term. The Hibees have a Scottish Cup semi-final against city rivals Hearts on the horizon on November 1, in what will be Reedijk’s fifth match in charge.
“Marink’s appointment is an exciting moment for Hibernian Football Club,” said sporting director Malky Mackay.
“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.
“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.”
Hibs chairman Ian Gordon added: “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.”
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