Zlatan Ibrahimović slams Dutch coach Ronald Koeman after World Cup exit

Former striker Zlatan Ibrahimović, now a Fox Sports analyst, criticised Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman following the Dutch team’s penalty shoot‑out loss to Morocco in the World Cup knockout round. Ibrahimović said Koeman’s tactics made the side “unrecognisable” and likened his approach to that of an Italian coach, stating: “Koeman seemed like an Italian coach who plays not to lose; if you lose, at least do it while keeping your identity.”

His remarks were echoed by former teammates and commentators, including Thierry Henry, who agreed that Koeman’s substitutions “showed the Netherlands fearing Morocco.” Italian pundit Roberto Mussa also described the comment as a “personal jab” but noted it reflected a broader belief that Koeman had “snaturato l’anima del calcio olandese.” The defeat sent Morocco to the quarter‑finals where they will face host nation Canada.

The criticism centers on Koeman’s defensive set‑up and the benching of attacking players, which Ibrahimović argued stripped the Dutch side of its traditional offensive identity.