PEC Zwolle head coach dismissal

PEC Zwolle has dismissed head coach Henry van der Vegt following a poor start to the Eredivisie season. The 54-year-old, who previously served as an assistant at the club, was appointed at the start of the 2025/26 season. The decision follows a series of disappointing results, including a 0-7 loss to Feyenoord and a 0-1 loss to SC Cambuur, leaving the team in sixteenth place with four points from eight matches.

Technical director Gerry Hamstra stated the decision was made because there was ‘too little stability and development visible on a sporting level.’ Hamstra described the move as difficult, noting that Van der Vegt is a ‘club icon’ and that the departure has deeply affected the squad and staff.

Dennis van der Ree and Maikel van der Werff have been appointed to lead the team for the upcoming IJsselderby against Go Ahead Eagles. While Van der Ree will take charge of the match, he clarified that a permanent head coaching position is not currently on the table for him, emphasizing instead a focus on high-intensity play to improve the season.

Efforts to secure a permanent replacement are underway, though the club has faced setbacks. Former FC Twente coach René Hake reportedly declined the vacancy following discussions with Hamstra. The coaching transition occurs as the club prepares for the IJsselderby amid local discussions regarding the declining intensity and passion of the rivalry between the two clubs.