Kees Rijvers

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Lore & Background

Rijvers arrived at PSV Eindhoven in 1972 following a successful six-year spell managing FC Twente. His time at PSV produced immediate results, securing the Eredivisie title in his first full season of 1974–75 and adding the KNVB Cup in 1973–74. The peak of his tenure came in 1976 when he led the team to both the league and cup double. This dominance continued into 1978, where PSV claimed their third Eredivisie title under his guidance. Although PSV went on to win the UEFA Cup in 1977–78, Rijvers had left the club during that season, so the continental glory belongs to his successors. His leadership style fostered a winning culture that earned him the KNVB's Oeuvre Award, recognizing his lasting impact on Dutch football.

In Their Own Story

The defining moment of Rijvers' coaching career at PSV occurred during the 1977–78 UEFA Cup campaign. After navigating a challenging season domestically to secure another league title, he steered the team to European triumph. This victory in the UEFA Cup marked a high point for the club's history under his management. Following this success, Rijvers left PSV for a short stint at Beringen in Belgium before taking over the Netherlands national team in February 1981, where he introduced future legends like Marco van Basten and Ruud Gullit.

Reader's Guide

Fans of Kees Rijvers should note that his coaching career with PSV began in 1972, not later as some timelines might suggest. His most productive years were the mid-to-late 1970s, specifically capturing titles in 1975, 1976, and 1978. A key achievement to remember is the double won in 1976, combining the Eredivisie and the KNVB Cup. He also secured a second KNVB Cup in 1974. The 1977–78 UEFA Cup stands as his major European honor with the club. His influence extended beyond trophies; he laid the groundwork for future success at PSV, influencing managers like Erik ten Hag who later cited Rijvers as an inspiration.

Did You Know?

• Rijvers became the final surviving player who received a vote in the inaugural 1956 Ballon d'Or after Marcelino Campanal's death in May 2020.
• He was one of the first Dutch players to turn professional, transferring to AS Saint-Étienne in 1950, which led to his suspension from the national team until 1957.
• Rijvers formed the renowned 'Gouden Binnentrio' (The Golden Inner Three) with Faas Wilkes and Abe Lenstra, scoring 23 goals together in just ten matches.
• He played in the Watersnoodwedstrijd on 12 March 1953 to raise funds for North Sea flood victims, a match that proceeded only after Prince Bernhard's personal intervention against KNVB wishes.