BASEL, Switzerland – The Netherlands women’s national football team faced a disappointing exit from Euro 2025, leading to the termination of coach Andries Jonker. The team was eliminated in the group stage after suffering a heavy 5-2 defeat to France on July 2, 2025, leaving them with only one victory in three matches and conceding a total of nine goals throughout the tournament.
Jonker’s tenure, which began in 2022, ended amid controversy and tactical missteps. The team’s early optimism, stemming from Jonker’s arrival as a well-regarded assistant coach at clubs like Barcelona and Bayern Munich, faded as the squad struggled against top-ranked opponents. A previous 4-0 loss to England and a subsequent collapse against France underscored a campaign fraught with difficulties.
Despite starting the tournament with a glimmer of hope, the Netherlands lost their way after taking a 2-1 lead against France. Three quick goals conceded within six minutes dashed any hopes of progression. This performance marked a stark contrast to their history under former manager Sarina Wiegman, who led the team to victory at Euro 2017 and a runner-up finish at the 2019 World Cup.
Challenges and Controversies During Jonker’s Tenure
The Dutch national team faced a challenging group in Euro 2025, featuring two of the world’s top ten teams. While the circumstances were difficult, the team’s overall performance was disappointing, raising questions about their status as a European powerhouse. The Royal Netherlands Football Association (KNVB) had already decided not to extend Jonker’s contract beyond the tournament, which contributed to unrest within the squad.
The situation escalated leading up to Euro 2025, with Jonker expressing doubts about his authority and support. He admitted to considering resignation before the tournament, stating, “There was no one around me that said that I need to do this.” His comments sparked media scrutiny, culminating in a contentious press conference where a journalist accused him of prioritizing his image over the players.
As the tournament progressed, tensions within the squad became evident. While captain Sherida Spitse publicly defended Jonker, other players voiced concerns about his management style. Damaris Egurrola, a midfielder for Lyon, criticized her limited playing time and expressed frustration with the tactical approach. Veteran player Daniëlle van de Donk faced an unusual situation, starting in the opening match but later being benched due to a groin injury without prior explanation.
Injuries to key players, including Vivianne Miedema and Daphne van Domselaar, further complicated Jonker’s planning. His decision-making came under scrutiny, particularly when he left Miedema on the bench during a crucial match against France. The team’s reliance on older players and reluctance to incorporate younger talent led to a lack of depth and adaptability.
A New Direction for the Netherlands Women’s Team
With Jonker’s departure, the KNVB has named Arjan Veurink as the new head coach. Veurink, who served as Wiegman’s trusted assistant for eight years, is expected to revitalize the squad. Players have expressed positivity regarding his appointment, highlighting his familiarity with the team and his successful tenure with the English Football Association.
As the team looks to rebuild after their disappointing Euro 2025 run, there is a sense of hope that Veurink can implement refreshed tactics and foster better relationships within the squad. Egurrola stated, “Someone new is coming in, with an almost entirely new staff; a fresh start.” This change may be exactly what the Netherlands needs to reclaim their status in women’s football.
The Netherlands’ performance at Euro 2025 serves as a cautionary tale about the challenges of coaching and team dynamics. As the team transitions into a new era, learning from past mistakes will be crucial for their future success on the international stage.
