Erik ten Hag reveals why he firmly said ‘no’ to Feyenoord

FC Twente technical director Erik ten Hag has told Goedemorgen Eredivisie why he said 'no' to Dennis te Kloese when Feyenoord approached him.

After disappointing league results, Feyenoord's board dismissed Brian Priske in February 2025 and approached Ten Hag to replace him.

"I had a long phone conversation with Feyenoord. They are a great club and I did feel a certain connection with Te Kloese (Feyenoord's technical director at the time, ed.), but my past at Ajax led me to decide against it," Ten Hag began.

"And after 17 years in which I had always been on the go as a coach, having gone straight into it after my career, I was finally at a point where I could take a step back," he continued.

"To take stock, reflect and do something different for once. Ultimately, I think it was good to take some time away from football," said Ten Hag.

Timo Letschert then asked his former coach whether he would want to manage Ajax again. "I wouldn't rule it out, but before we get any headlines: I'm the technical director at FC Twente now and I'm really enjoying it."

Instead, Feyenoord chose Robin van Persie. The former striker finished second with the club last season, but Feyenoord nevertheless thanked him for his services in the summer.