Dirk Kuyt’s first thoughts at FC Dordrecht: “A great opportunity to further develop as a coach” | OneFootball

Dirk Kuyt’s third coaching job has arrived in the shape of second-division FC Dordrecht. Following Melvin Boel’s departure to the aspirational Go Ahead Eagles, Kuyt’s arrival at the Stadion Krommedijk is tinged with hope after a drab season at Beerschot last term.

Labelled a “high potential trainer” by his new club, read on as we look through the former Feyenoord and Liverpool man’s comments regarding his first job back on the Dutch sidelines after a short stint with ADO Den Haag in 2022.

Looking to add more stability and experience to an growing coaching resume

Image via Voetbal 24

Last season, Kuyt was often a perplexed figure in a chaotic scene at Beerschot. At one point, the first team didn’t have a pitch to train on, leading the coach to drive around Antwerp in search of a new location. At a time when relegation-earning form was abysmal and board members seemed to be in and out on a conveyor belt, stress levels were (understandably) through the roof.

Kuyt has already looked far more relaxed in his formative tenure, and it seems that a club-wide stability is what drew him to South Holland.

“This is a great opportunity to further develop myself as a coach. I am here to bring even more stability to the club.

“I also want to continue the attacking game that they have shown in recent years. And to allow the great talents to develop further. I can’t wait to get started on the field.”

Continuing a strong bond with Feyenoord

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While Dordrecht admittedly have talents in their own right, the links with regional superpower Feyenoord are undeniable.

Replicating the success of loanee Shiloh ‘t Zand in 2023-24, exciting 20-year-old winger Jaden Slory grabbed 10 goals and seven assists in 33 matches last term to be voted the top talent in the Keuken Kampioen Divisie as the Schapenkoppen finished fifth.

Former Feyenoord captain Kuyt adds to this, and while he has previously described the managerial job at De Kuip as a dream, he understands the job at hand and how the links could help his existing group.

“I knew there was a link with Feyenoord, I really like the mutual cooperation. There is a lot of quality and potential in the technical staff here. I look forward to the cooperation.

“Robin has his first training today (Monday). Let him first see what kind of meat he has in De Kuip, then we’ll see if he still has something nice for us.”

Following in Melvin Boel’s developmental footsteps

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Old boss Melvin Boel enjoyed similar experiences to Kuyt, cutting his managerial teeth within the youth system at Feyenoord. Given the 38-year-old’s recent step up, Kuyt (44) is hoping to follow his friend’s lead.

“It’s nice to know in advance what you’re getting into. Which players are you going to work with? What about the technical staff? I was already convinced, but he convinced me even more. We spoke for more than an hour. That says everything about our bond and also a lot about Melvin.”

So, what specifically can we expect in this upcoming season? Kuyt has already made one signing with the acquisition of forward Nick Venema from Valenciennes. Yet, aside from that nod to the team’s offensive output, the former striker is keeping his cards close to his chest.

“Due to all sorts of factors, it’s not realistic to say a precise goal now. In any case, we’ll go for the maximum, that’s what I’ve already said to the players. I’m mainly looking forward to getting on the field now.”

GBeNeFN | Max Bradfield