For Mark van Bommel, 2023 was a fruitful year after facing some setbacks in his coaching career. With Antwerp FC, he secured both the cup and the Super Cup, but the icing on the cake was, of course, the national title.
"For those on the outside, there's a sudden recognition, and for me, it brought a sense of satisfaction, finally putting an end to the constant nagging about my lack of coaching accolades," reflects former PSV and VfL Wolfsburg coach, Mark van Bommel.
"But let me be clear, I never once harbored doubts about my suitability for this profession. It might come across as arrogant, but I've always had confidence in the fact that my footballing ideas and my approach to players have consistently been sound. I genuinely believe that the latter is crucial. To be a successful coach, you must be capable of convincing players because they are discerning individuals. No matter where I've been, be it PSV or Wolfsburg, I've consistently been able to win players over. The players know that I empathize with their feelings."
Van Bommel further emphasizes that he hasn't undergone a fundamental transformation as a coach since his time at PSV and VfL Wolfsburg. "I haven't become a different coach; I've become a better one. More attuned to the intricacies of the game.
The longer you spend as a coach, the more your vision evolves and improves. Experience is gained through hands-on involvement. You encounter diverse players with unique qualities that you need to integrate into a cohesive unit. Every situation is different, and as a coach, you must adapt and evolve with each challenge."
In the interview, Van Bommel sheds light on the intricacies of his coaching philosophy, underlining the importance of continuous improvement and adaptation. He acknowledges the dynamic nature of coaching, wherein every team and player presents a unique puzzle to solve.
The seasoned coach expresses gratitude for the recognition garnered in 2023, marked by achievements with Antwerp FC, including winning the cup, the Super Cup, and the prestigious national title. This success, he believes, is not a departure from his coaching principles but a testament to their enduring effectiveness.
