Ten Hag out, Slot the name Oranje cannot ignore

Ten Hag says no

Erik ten Hag has ruled himself out. The FC Twente director told the KNVB he is "not available" to replace Ronald Koeman as Netherlands head coach (1) (2). No ambiguity, no maybe later, a flat no before talks even began.

Slot is the name on everyone's lips

Arne Slot is being talked about as a golden opportunity for Oranje. Martijn Krabbendam, Freek Jansen and Sjoerd Keizer discussed his appointment on VI's Rondje WK, framing it as a move the KNVB cannot afford to pass up (3).

Ek texted Slot directly

Journalist Merel Ek messaged Slot about the national team job. He replied immediately (4). No details on what was said, but the speed of the response tells you the interest is real on both sides.