Giovanni van Bronckhorst signed a two‑year contract to return as Feyenoord head coach, with an option to extend for a further season. He replaces Robin van Persie, dismissed after just 16 months. The 51‑year‑old arrives from Liverpool, where he served as Arne Slot’s assistant before the Dutchman’s exit.

During his first spell from 2015 to 2019, van Bronckhorst guided the Rotterdam side to back‑to‑back KNVB Cups and the Eredivisie title 2017, cementing his reputation as a club legend. His most recent job at Besiktas ended abruptly after five months, despite winning the Turkish Super Cup. The appointment restores a familiar face who knows the club’s culture intimately.

A product of Feyenoord’s youth system, van Bronckhorst played five seasons for the senior team before a second three‑year stint later in his career. He told reporters the club has been part of his life since age seven, underscoring the emotional weight of the role. With the squad hovering near the top of the table, his return could sharpen their title push.