Ex-Barca coach Ronald Koeman announces death of wife

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Former Barcelona and Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman has announced the death of his wife, Bartina Koeman.

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Koeman confirmed the loss in a heartfelt tribute, describing Bartina as his “beautiful wife” and the family’s “dearest mother and grandmother.”

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“With intense sadness, but also with great pride and love, we say goodbye to my beautiful wife, our dearest mother and grandmother,” Koeman said.

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Barcelona expressed its condolences to the former manager and his family following Bartina’s death.

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“FC Barcelona and its supporters send their deepest condolences and affection to Ronald Koeman and his family for the passing of his wife, Bartina Koeman. May she rest in peace,” the club said.

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The Dutch football community also paid tribute to Bartina, with the Netherlands national team acknowledging her passing and offering its support to Koeman, their former head coach, as well as his children, grandchildren and other family members.

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“We wish Ronald, their (grand)children, family, and other loved ones a great deal of strength and support in the face of this great loss,” the message added.

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Koeman, 63, is one of the most prominent figures in Dutch football and enjoyed a distinguished playing career before moving into management.

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He managed Barcelona from 2020 to 2021 and has also coached the Netherlands national team, Everton, Southampton, Ajax and several other clubs during his managerial career.

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Bartina and Koeman had been married for decades and have three children together.

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The family has asked for privacy as they mourn the loss.

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