Former England Assistant Coach Steve Holland Appointed Manager of Yokohama F. Marinos

Steve Holland, who served as assistant manager to Gareth Southgate with the England national team for eight years, has been appointed as the new head coach of Yokohama F. Marinos in Japan's J1 League. This marks Holland's first major managerial position following his tenure with England, during which the team reached the finals of the European Championship and the semi-finals of the World Cup.

Holland, 54, parted ways with the England setup after the team's defeat to Spain in the Euro final in Germany last July. Since then, he has been exploring new opportunities and is set to lead Yokohama F. Marinos ahead of the upcoming J1 League season, which commences in February. His appointment follows his attendance at the club's final match of the 2024 season, a 2-0 home loss to Nagoya Grampus.

Yokohama F. Marinos, part of the City Football Group, concluded the season in ninth place in the 20-team J1 League. The club has experienced managerial changes recently, with former manager Harry Kewell being dismissed mid-season and interim coach John Hutchinson stepping in temporarily. Holland's extensive experience includes an eight-year stint at Chelsea, working under managers such as Jose Mourinho, Antonio Conte, and Rafa Benitez. His only prior head coaching role was with Crewe Alexandra from 2007 to 2008.

Holland's appointment is anticipated to bring stability and expertise to Yokohama F. Marinos as they aim to improve their league standing and performance in domestic and international competitions.