Erik ten Hag has taken himself out of contention for the vacant Netherlands head coach position, stating his full commitment to a two-year role as technical director at FC Twente.

The Dutch Football Association (KNVB) had identified Ten Hag as a primary target following Ronald Koeman's resignation, which came after the Netherlands were eliminated in the round of 32 at the 2026 World Cup.

Speaking on the matter, Ten Hag was unequivocal: "I am not available. I deliberately chose to take this step. I will be fully focused on this for at least the next two years. I am enjoying my time here and want to help the club move forward."

A crowded field of candidates

With Ten Hag out of the picture, the KNVB must look elsewhere. Former Dutch striker Robin van Persie and ex-forward Ruud van Nistelrooy have been reported as frontrunners for the role.

Legendary manager Louis van Gaal has also been mentioned, as has Michael Reiziger, who currently leads the Netherlands' Under-21 side. Arne Slot, recently dismissed by Liverpool, rounds out the list of names in circulation.

Ten Hag's recent history

Ten Hag's last managerial position was at Bayer Leverkusen, where he lasted just two Bundesliga matches before being sacked despite overseeing a squad overhaul during the summer transfer window. He had previously been let go by Manchester United before taking up the technical director post at FC Twente.