Ronald Koeman in mourning: his wife has died at age 65. “Farewell with love”

Ronald Koeman’s wife, Bartina, has died at the age of 65 following a serious illness. The former Netherlands national team coach announced the news this morning with a brief but heartfelt message on social media: “With immense sadness, but also with great pride and love, we say goodbye to the wonderful woman, our dear mother and grandmother, Bartina Koeman-Boddeveld.”

Her condition had been serious for years, and after the team’s elimination in the round of 16 at the hands of Morocco, Koeman explained that his decision to step down as head coach was also linked to this: “The last few years have made me realize once again that there are things more important than soccer. Soccer has been my life, but health is priceless. When someone you love is fighting a tough battle, your perspective changes.”

There have been many messages of condolence: “From FC Barcelona, we wish to convey our deepest condolences and all the affection of the Barcelona family to Ronald Koeman and his family on the loss of his wife, Bartina Koeman. May she rest in peace,” reads a statement on the Catalan club’s website.

““It is with great sadness that we have learned of the death of Bartina Koeman, the wife of our former head coach Ronald Koeman. We wish Ronald, their children, the family, and other loved ones much strength and courage during this time of profound grief,” reads the statement published on X by the Dutch Football Association.