Arne Slot’s Feyenoord Successor Brian Priske Sacked After Poor Run | OneFootball

Feyenoord Sack Arne Slot’s Successor as Brian Priske Faces the Axe

Arne Slot’s managerial journey has been nothing short of remarkable since taking the reins at Liverpool. The Dutchman, once a relatively unknown figure, has surpassed expectations, leading the Reds to the Carabao Cup final in his debut season and steering them to the top of the Premier League table. But while Slot’s star continues to rise in England, his former club Feyenoord finds itself in turmoil.

Photo: IMAGO

Brian Priske’s Short-Lived Tenure at Feyenoord

Brian Priske, who stepped into Slot’s shoes at Feyenoord, has seen his tenure cut short. The Danish manager arrived at De Kuip with a solid reputation, having led Sparta Prague to back-to-back Czech league titles. Early signs were promising, especially with notable performances such as a dramatic 3-3 comeback against Manchester City in the UEFA Champions League.

However, inconsistency plagued Priske’s time in Rotterdam. Despite flashes of brilliance, Feyenoord struggled to maintain form in the Eredivisie, culminating in a string of poor results that left them trailing 12 points behind league leaders Ajax. Saturday’s 3-0 win over Sparta Rotterdam was their first league victory in five games, but it was too little, too late.

Official Statement from Feyenoord

On Monday, Feyenoord announced Priske’s dismissal. General and Technical Director Dennis te Kloese addressed the decision on the club’s website, stating:

“It is very disappointing for all parties that we had to come to this decision. Although Feyenoord has certainly achieved impressive results with Brian in the UEFA Champions League, the past few months have been far too inconsistent, and we unfortunately see too little structural progress.

As a professional and as a person, I still hold Brian in high regard. Sometimes, however, you have to conclude that despite everyone’s good intentions, it does not work, and at a certain point, there is no longer enough support within all levels to continue.”

Priske’s Sacking Adds Pressure Ahead of Crucial UCL Clash

The timing of Priske’s departure couldn’t be more precarious. Feyenoord are set to host AC Milan on Wednesday in the first leg of the UEFA Champions League knockout stage playoffs. With the second leg scheduled for February 18 in Italy, the club faces a daunting challenge without a permanent manager at the helm.

Adding to the disappointment, Feyenoord were knocked out of the KNVB Cup—a trophy they clinched last season under Arne Slot. The contrast between Slot’s triumphs at Liverpool and Feyenoord’s current struggles underlines the Dutchman’s influence and the challenges of following in his footsteps.

What’s Next for Feyenoord and Brian Priske?

As Feyenoord scrambles to steady the ship, the focus will be on finding a manager capable of restoring stability and guiding them through a turbulent season. Meanwhile, Priske’s future remains uncertain. Despite his struggles in Rotterdam, his previous successes in Prague suggest he won’t be out of work for long.

For now, all eyes are on Feyenoord’s next move and whether they can salvage their season amidst managerial upheaval.