Former Barcelona and Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman is mourning the death of his wife, Bartina Koeman, after decades of marriage.
Koeman, 63, announced her passing in an emotional tribute, remembering Bartina as his “beautiful wife” and the family’s “dearest mother and grandmother.”
“With intense sadness, but also with great pride and love, we say goodbye to my beautiful wife, our dearest mother and grandmother,” the former Netherlands international said.
News of Bartina’s death prompted tributes from across the football community, with Barcelona among the first major clubs to express its condolences to the Koeman family.
“FC Barcelona and its supporters send their deepest condolences and affection to Ronald Koeman and his family for the passing of his wife, Bartina Koeman. May she rest in peace,” the club said.
The Netherlands national team also sent a message of support to Koeman, who has managed the country at different stages of his coaching career. The Dutch football authorities extended their condolences to his children, grandchildren and other relatives.
“We wish Ronald, their (grand)children, family, and other loved ones a great deal of strength and support in the face of this great loss,” the message read.
Bartina and Koeman had three children together and had been married for many years. The family has requested privacy as they come to terms with her death.
Koeman remains one of the best-known figures in Dutch football, having first established his reputation as an accomplished defender before embarking on a managerial career.
His coaching career has included spells at Barcelona, where he was in charge from 2020 to 2021, as well as Everton, Southampton and Ajax. He has also served as manager of the Netherlands national team.
During his playing days, Koeman was a key figure in Dutch football and represented some of Europe’s leading clubs. His career on the pitch helped establish a reputation that later carried into management.
The tributes following Bartina’s death reflect the long-standing connection between Koeman and the Dutch football community. As the family grieves, messages of support have continued to reach the former Netherlands coach and his loved ones.
