Adelaide United mutually part ways with Gertjan Verbeek

Adelaide United wishes to advise it has mutually parted ways with Head Coach, Gertjan Verbeek.

Verbeek, who was contracted with the Club until the end of the 2020/21 season, requested to be released from his contract after recently returning home to the Netherlands as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak.

Despite less than a one-year stint at the Club, the Dutchman has undoubtedly left his mark on the Reds’ history by helping claim its third FFA Cup trophy, as well as debuting a number of promising South Australian talents.

“Given a number of reasons, such as the global health problems, future of the league, difficult financial situation of the Club and the need to protect and care for my family, my future as head coach at Adelaide United was insecure,” said Verbeek from Holland.

“Based on the uncertain period we are currently in, we mutually agreed to end the contract after one season.

“I would like to thank the Adelaide United fans for supporting me and the team through this period.

“It was a great triumph to win the FFA Cup this season and I’m very proud of this accomplishment.

“The coronavirus has made it a very difficult and insecure situation for everyone, but I hope the team, the staff, and everyone’s families all remain safe and healthy during these challenging times.”

Speaking on Verbeek’s departure, Chairman, Piet van der Pol, said: “We are grateful for Gertjan’s hard work and for what he did for our Football Club over the past 10-or-so months.

“Not only has he given some of our young players a chance at professional football, he also helped guide us to our third FFA Cup trophy.

“I would like to thank Gertjan for everything he has done at Adelaide United, and, on behalf of the Club, our members and supporters, and our partners, wish him the best for his future.

“I would also like to announce that we will not be renewing the contract of our Performance Coach, Gerald Sibon.

“We thank Gerald for his great efforts and for his work in developing our Club too.

“In due course we will assess the situation and will make the appropriate coaching staff decision based on the status of the league.”

 

Adelaide United Chairman, Piet van der Pol, will hold a press conference tomorrow (Thursday, 30 April 2020) at approximately 10:00am. A Media Opportunity will be sent out shortly confirming the details.