John Heitinga Joins Coaching Staff in Latest Update
John Heitinga has officially joined the coaching staff at a prominent football club as the First Team Assistant Coach. He will be working under Head Coach Thomas Frank, bringing a wealth of experience and knowledge to the team.
Coaching Career Overview
John Heitinga began his coaching journey in 2016 after retiring from professional play. He initially worked with the youth teams at Ajax. In January 2023, he stepped in as interim head coach for Ajax’s senior team for the remainder of the season.
Previous Positions
- January 2023: Interim head coach at Ajax.
- Following the Ajax stint, Heitinga joined West Ham United as First Team Assistant.
- In July 2024, he was appointed as an Assistant Coach at Liverpool.
- He returned to Ajax as Head Coach in May 2025.
Playing Career Highlights
As a player, Heitinga made over 400 appearances for several clubs, including:
- Ajax
- Atletico Madrid
- Everton
- Fulham
- Hertha BSC
He also earned 87 caps for the Netherlands, contributing to his national team’s efforts in various major tournaments.
Impact on Current Coaching Staff
Thomas Frank expressed his excitement about Heitinga’s arrival. He noted that Heitinga’s extensive playing experience, particularly as a defender, enhances the coaching staff’s capabilities.
Frank emphasized that Heitinga’s character and expertise on and off the pitch will bring significant value to the club. The coach believes that Heitinga’s experience in both youth and professional levels will be instrumental for future success.
