FC Utrecht welcome back former player Michael Silberbauer as their new head coach to replace Henk Fraser, the club have announced.
Silberbauer, who also served as an assistant coach this year, has signed a two-and-a-half year deal for the Eredivisie side as they sit comfortably in mid-table ahead of the season restarting in January.
Technical director Jordy Zuidam is delighted to see Silberbauer back at the Stadion Galgenwaard having only left the club a to join Danish side FC Midtjylland as assistant manager ahead of the 2022/23 season.
“We are very happy that Michael is returning to FC Utrecht,” said . “As a player, and also as an assistant coach, we have come to know Michael as a strategist, a leader and a connector. He is driven and has a very strong will to win. Michael knows the club, knows part of the selection and knows better than anyone what is required of an FC Utrecht player.”
Zuidam added: “Michael has consciously developed in recent years in various areas within modern football to prepare himself as a head coach. We have deliberately opted for cooperation because of Michael’s clear football vision, which is in line with our sporting ambitions.
“As an ambitious and modern thinker, Michael wants his team to play with the heart from a good organization and with an attacking mindset. Recently we have had several intensive conversations with Michael, which has only strengthened our confidence in him.
“Michael embraces our plans and was excited to return to FC Utrecht. We found a suitable solution with FC Midtjylland, also because that club gave him the opportunity to work as head coach at FC Utrecht.”
Silberbauer spoke of his delight in returning to the club having enjoyed a playing spell for them between 2008 and 2011 where he made over 100 appearances including a successful campaign in the Europa League.
“I am extremely happy to return to the club where I have a great history,” he said. “It is now time for a new chapter as Head Coach at FC Utrecht. In recent years I have consistently and gradually invested in my development and my vision of the game of football.
“I have gained experience at various clubs, in different countries. I will take that experience with me to FC Utrecht, where we will do everything we can to realise the ambitions of the club. I am really looking forward to the new chapter in my FC Utrecht book and can’t wait to return to Stadium Galgenwaard.”
