Feyenoord general manager Dennis te Kloese has quit the club, effectively taking responsibility for a dire season.
The Rotterdam side are second in the Eredivisie but gifted PSV the earliest-ever title win in league history thanks to a poor showing.
Automatic qualification for the Champions League remains under threat from NEC and Twente who have far smaller budgets, and it’s hard not to look at decisions in squad planning.
Robin van Persie has been close to the sack throughout the season with his unique and stubborn approach to coaching not paying dividends.
Yet Feyenoord continually missed the chance to replace him, and instead backed him with the signing of Raheem Sterling in February.
It soon emerged that Sterling wouldn’t be fit to contribute during a six-month contract, further questioning Te Kloese’s decision making at the top level.
Feyenoord bombshell
Announcing his exit, he said: “I will continue working diligently for the time being, because I want to leave the club in the best possible condition.
“But I can already say that I considered it a real privilege to lead Feyenoord.
“Of course, not everything turned out well, but together with all colleagues within the club, we have taken big steps.’
“The foundation that is currently in place is solid. I wish the club and the supporters that this can now be built upon further, including by finally becoming one with the stadium soon, after decades of hassle.
“The future will tell what and where it takes me and my family, but in any case, I will always look back on this period with pride, and I wish Feyenoord and all Feyenoorders every success.”
Responding to the news, Van Persie could perhaps sense his time would be up soon after.
Van Persie responds
“These are turbulent times,” he began.
“I think it’s a real shame that he is quitting. He has explained his reasons to me. It is not up to me to tell that now; I’m sure he will do so himself at some point.
“He gave me the opportunity as a coach and I am grateful to him for that. He is a sparring partner for me as a coach and as a person.
“I hope he is happy with his future choice, just as he was here.”
Asked if he’s now worried for the future, Van Persie respondedL “Worry is a strong word.
“We are keeping a close eye on next season, but other people are in charge of that as well.
“It is what it is now. Everyone needs to realize that people are making different choices. I am focusing on the team.”
Further explaining the news, Feyenoord chairman Toon van Bodegom gave a statement.
“Dennis led Feyenoord during a period of great dynamism and brought the club to a higher and more stable financial level,” he said.
“His contribution to the professionalisation and future-proofing of Feyenoord has been of great value.
“However, the efforts are also taking their toll, as we have jointly determined.
“That is why we have come to the conclusion that it is best for him and for the club to end this overall successful collaboration shortly.”
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