FC Barcelona and Ronald Koeman have reached an agreement for the Dutchman to take over as the first-team coach until 30 June 2022. The Dutch coach has left his position as head of the Netherlands national team to take over at the Camp Nou following the sacked of Quique Setién after a disastrous trophyless season.
According to Josep Maria Bartomeu, president of FC Barcelona, the 57-year-old Dutchman who spent six years as a player at Barcelona, was chosen on the based on his history with Barcelona (was a member of Johan Cruyff's legendary 'Dream Team') and Ajax, two clubs linked by the influence of Johan Cruyff.
"We already know how he thinks and his philosophy. We bet on him. He was the first one we called in January. It's a dream for him. As he was in Johan's 'Dream Team', he knows Barca and how we understand football." - Bartomeu
Upon his appointment, Koeman told the Dutch FA's website: "Everyone knows that Barcelona is my dream club. It feels very special to me to be able to become a coach there. It was an honour to be the national coach of the Netherlands. Over the past two-and-a-half years, I have done everything I can to achieve success. I look back with pride on what we have achieved together in that period. The Dutch national team has a bright future, I am convinced of that."
