FC Eindhoven Fires Injured Trainer Verberne & Appoints Replacement

FC Eindhoven has parted ways with head coach Maurice Verberne, the club confirmed on Thursday. The decision comes after Verberne suffered a broken leg several months ago, sidelining him from team duties and follows a period where interim coach Jan Poortvliet has led the team.

Verberne, 54, will remain formally connected to the club until the end of the season but has been relieved of his responsibilities. “It is a shame that due to my injury and the period of absence I can no longer return within the team process this season,” Verberne stated on the club website. “My focus is now on completing my rehabilitation. I look back with pride on my time at the club and wish the players, staff and supporters much success for the rest of the season.”

Jan Poortvliet initially took over as interim coach in December and will continue to manage the team for the remainder of the season. The club’s technical manager, Marc Scheepers, acknowledged the change in team dynamics during Verberne’s absence. “Maurice has always committed himself wholeheartedly to FC Eindhoven,” Scheepers said. “Due to his long absence, a new dynamic has arisen within the staff and selection. In consultation, we have decided to finish the season with Jan Poortvliet.”

Prior to his injury, Verberne had faced pressure due to a string of poor results in the Keuken Kampioen Divisie and KNVB Beker. The club has not yet announced any plans regarding the technical staff for the upcoming season.

The decision to permanently remove Verberne was made after a period of evaluation, with the club citing the need for stability and a consistent approach for the remainder of the campaign. Scheepers emphasized the positive shift in team dynamics under Poortvliet’s leadership as a key factor in the decision.