Official Announcement: HFF Names John van ‘t Schip as Head Coach
The Football Federation of Armenia (HFF) has officially announced the appointment of John van ‘t Schip as the new head coach of the Armenian national football team. The 61-year-old Dutch coach, formerly at the helm of Ajax and the Greek national team, will take charge starting March 1, 2025, under a 1+1 contract agreement. HFF President Armen Melikbekyan introduced Van ‘t Schip to the Executive Committee members, who subsequently approved his candidacy.
Van ‘t Schip’s Coaching Pedigree: Ajax and Greece National Team Experience
John van ‘t Schip brings a wealth of experience from top-level European football. His managerial career includes head coach positions at prominent clubs like Ajax and national teams such as Greece. Furthermore, he served as an assistant coach for the Netherlands national team under Marco van Basten, gaining experience in international football at the highest level. His background suggests a coach capable of implementing sophisticated strategies and developing players within a national team framework.
Aron Winter Joins as Assistant Coach: Dutch Expertise for Armenia
Adding to the Dutch influence in the Armenian national team setup, Aron Winter, a former Dutch international player, will join as assistant coach. Winter’s experience as a player for the Netherlands national team and various clubs across Europe complements Van ‘t Schip’s expertise, creating a strong Dutch coaching partnership for Armenia.
Contract Details: 1+1 Agreement and Start Date
John van ‘t Schip’s contract with the Armenian National Team is structured as a 1+1 agreement, indicating an initial one-year term with an option for an additional year. He is set to officially begin his duties on March 1, 2025, giving him time to prepare for upcoming national team fixtures and integrate into the Armenian football landscape.
Player Career Highlights: European Champion and Ajax Legend
Before his coaching career, John van ‘t Schip had a distinguished playing career. As a player, he represented the Netherlands national team in 41 matches, scoring 2 goals. He was a key member of the Netherlands team that won the UEFA European Championship in 1988. At club level, he was a legend at Ajax, playing 273 games and scoring 29 goals, and winning four Dutch Eredivisie titles and three KNVB Cups, as well as the UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup and UEFA Cup.
Coaching Career Path: From Ajax Youth to National Teams
Van ‘t Schip’s coaching career began in 1997 with Ajax youth teams. He progressed through the ranks, serving as assistant coach for Ajax and the Netherlands national team. His head coaching roles include spells at Twente, Jong Ajax, Melbourne Heart (later Melbourne City), Guadalajara, PEC Zwolle, and the Greek national team, demonstrating a diverse and extensive coaching trajectory across different footballing cultures. Notably, he won the Australian Cup with Melbourne City in 2016, showcasing his ability to achieve success in different football environments.