Arsenal’s highly regarded assistant coach, Albert Stuivenberg, is being linked with the vacant head coach position at Feyenoord.

With Arne Slot‘s departure to Liverpool looking increasingly likely, speculation about his successor is rife.

Stuivenberg’s credentials

Arsenal's Spanish manager Mikel Arteta (L) speaks with Arsenal's Dutch assistant coach Albert Stuivenberg (R) during the English Premier League football match between Arsenal and Sheffield United at the Emirates Stadium in London on October 28, 2023. (Photo by GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty Images)
Arsenal’s Spanish manager Mikel Arteta (L) speaks with Arsenal’s Dutch assistant coach Albert Stuivenberg (R) during the English Premier League football match between Arsenal and Sheffield United at the Emirates Stadium in London on October 28, 2023. (Photo by GLYN KIRK/AFP via Getty Images)

Should Albert Stuivenberg opt to leave Arsenal, he would bring a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of Dutch football to the role. He spent 12 formative years in Feyenoord‘s youth academy and has excelled at the top levels of the game with Arsenal and Manchester United. His time at KRC Genk as a head coach further enhances his coaching CV.

Van Stee’s endorsement

Former technical director of Zenit St. Petersburg and Feyenoord manager, Henk van Stee, has publicly endorsed Stuivenberg as a strong candidate. He praised Stuivenberg’s international experience, coaching acumen, and connection to Feyenoord: “You also have former Feyenoorders who have done great internationally, such as Albert Stuivenberg at Arsenal and Manchester United,” he said when discussing the club’s options.

“I know from experience that his pitch training is great and he has gained experience in the field of coaching in Belgium.”

Arsenal’s perspective

Arsenal's Dutch assistant manager Albert Stuivenberg (L) and Arsenal's Spanish manager Mikel Arteta lead a training session on the eve of their UEFA Champions League quarter final first leg football match against Bayern Munich, at the Arsenal training centre, in Shenley, England, on April 8, 2024 (Photo by ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images)
Arsenal’s Dutch assistant manager Albert Stuivenberg (L) and Arsenal’s Spanish manager Mikel Arteta lead a training session on the eve of their UEFA Champions League quarter final first leg football match against Bayern Munich, at the Arsenal training centre, in Shenley, England, on April 8, 2024 (Photo by ADRIAN DENNIS/AFP via Getty Images)

While the potential move would be a significant loss for Arsenal, where Stuivenberg is a valued member of Mikel Arteta‘s staff, it could be a fantastic opportunity for him to step into a leading role at a club with a rich history that he knows well.

It remains to be seen whether Feyenoord will actively pursue Stuivenberg or if he’ll express interest in the position. With Slot’s move imminent, developments are likely to happen quickly as the Dutch club seeks a new head coach to continue their impressive momentum.