RIP: A devastating tragedy in Ronald Koeman's family

The football world has been rocked by a heartbreaking loss: the wife of Netherlands head coach Ronald Koeman has passed away.

Details: A devastating tragedy has struck the family of legendary Dutch footballer and Netherlands head coach Ronald Koeman. His wife, Bartina Koeman, has died at the age of 65. She had bravely battled cancer for a long time — breast cancer, a diagnosis the coach had previously spoken about publicly.

Ronald Koeman issued a deeply moving statement on behalf of the entire family, expressing the profound pain of their loss:

“With deep sorrow, but also with immense pride and love, we say goodbye to my wonderful wife, our dear mother and grandmother.”

Ronald and Bartina were married for more than four decades, having tied the knot back in 1985. Throughout his glittering playing career at Ajax, PSV, Barcelona and Feyenoord, as well as during his coaching spells at leading European clubs and with the Netherlands national team, she remained his steadfast source of strength and support. The football world extends its heartfelt condolences to Ronald Koeman, his children and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.

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