By Robert Summerscales
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Former Everton and Barcelona boss Ronald Koeman has said that he will continue as manager of the Netherlands beyond the end of Euro 2024.
Koeman is under contract with the Dutch FA until after the FIFA World Cup in 2026.
However, some fans called for change after the Netherlands made an uninspiring start to their Euros campaign this summer.
Koeman’s side took just four points during the group stage – after beating Poland 2-1, drawing 0-0 with France and then losing 3-2 to Austria.
But those results were followed by a 3-0 demolition of Romania in the round of 16 and a 2-1 victory over Turkey in the quarter-finals.
Ronald Koeman expects to remain in the Netherlands dugout until after the 2026 World Cup
Koeman pictured celebrating after his team beat Turkey 2-1 in the Euro 2024 quarter-finals
Next up is England in the semi-finals on Wednesday and Koeman has dismissed the idea that this could be his last game in charge.
Asked at a press conference this week if he intended to stay on until the end of his contract, he replied: ‘Yes, I don’t think they can get rid of me anymore!’
That statement was a reference to any potential post-Euros evaluation that might take place.
Koeman also dismissed suggestions that his wife Bartina’s health issues might force him to step back from his role with the national team.
He added: ‘My wife’s health is okay. She does have treatments, but that is no reason to stop being a coach.’
Koeman and his team are now looking forward to a semi-final against England on Wednesday
Koeman has been the head coach of the Netherlands men’s national team since early 2023
Koeman has been in charge of the Netherlands since January last year. He has overseen 20 matches since then – 13 wins, six defeats and just one draw.
This is his second spell in the job after he led his country as manager in another 20 matches between 2018 and 2020, winning 11 of those, as well as losing four and drawing five.
Published by Associated Newspapers Ltd
Part of the Daily Mail, The Mail on Sunday & Metro Media Group