Sarina Wiegman is one of the most accomplished football managers of her generation, transforming women’s football and leading both the Netherlands and England to historic major tournament wins. This article dives deep into every aspect of her life and career, covering personal background, family, career achievements, coaching style, records, statistics, controversies, recent news, and much more. Her journey from a passionate young footballer to an influential international coach embodies perseverance, leadership, and innovation.
Early Life and Background
Born on October 26, 1969, in The Hague, Netherlands, Sarina Wiegman grew up in a sports-loving family. She played football on the streets and joined local clubs such as GSC ESDO and HSV Celeritas, often playing alongside boys due to the lack of girls’ teams. Her twin brother played a significant role in her early football experiences. With the support of her family, she combined her education with a relentless dedication to football from a young age.
Her talent took her to the United States in 1989, where she attended the University of North Carolina and played for the Tar Heels women’s soccer team. The experience was formative, exposing her to advanced coaching and competition, and earning the NCAA championship in 1989.
Family Life and Relationships
Sarina Wiegman is married to Marten Glotzbach, an economics professor and football coach. The couple has two daughters, Sacha and Lauren, both active in football at the youth and club levels in the Netherlands. Sacha plays for ADO Den Haag, while Lauren is part of Sports Club Monster. Wiegman’s family is frequently featured in her social media posts, highlighting the importance of support and togetherness throughout her career.
Playing Career
Sarina Wiegman began her professional playing career at KFC ’71, where she won the KNVB Cup in 1987. She then moved to Ter Leede, a team with which she earned Dutch championships in 2001 and 2003, as well as the KNVB Cup in 2001. During her international career, she represented the Netherlands from 1987 to 2001, amassing 99 officially recognised caps and three goals. Known for her leadership, technical skills, and adaptability, she captained the Dutch national team and left a lasting legacy.
Transition to Coaching
After retiring in 2003, Sarina Wiegman quickly transitioned to coaching. She began at Ter Leede and led them to a league and cup double in 2007. Subsequently, at ADO Den Haag, she secured multiple league titles and cups between 2007 and 2014. Her talent as a motivator and tactician was evident early on.
In 2014, she became the assistant coach for the Netherlands women’s national team, and in 2016, was appointed head coach. Her leadership style is marked by clear communication, accountability, and an ability to unite players around a common goal.
Achievements and Records
Major Titles
- Led the Netherlands to victory at the UEFA Women’s Euro 2017
- Took the Dutch team to the final of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2019
- Became manager of the England women’s national team in September 2021
- Won the UEFA Women’s Euro 2022 with England
- Reached the World Cup final with England in 2023
- Clinched back-to-back European Championships by winning the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 with England, which included a dramatic penalty shootout win over Spain
Unique Achievements
- First manager in history (across men’s and women’s football) to reach five consecutive major international tournament finals
- Only the second coach to win three successive editions of the UEFA Women’s EURO, joining Germany’s Tina Theune
Win Statistics
- Career win percentage with England: 71%; 52 wins from 70 matches, 9 draws, 9 losses
- Five major finals in a row: 2 with the Netherlands, 3 with England
Coaching Philosophy and Style
Sarina Wiegman is highly regarded for her direct, clear, and often abrupt communication style. She establishes roles within the squad before tournaments, providing certainty to players but sometimes causing friction with those losing their starting positions. Her approach is results-driven, focusing on unity and high standards.
Motivational speeches are a hallmark of her leadership, inspiring players through pre-match talks and halftime adjustments. She emphasises tactical organisation, player accountability, and fostering a winning mentality.
Transformative Impact
Wiegman’s rule has transformed women’s football in both the Netherlands and England, increasing youth participation, raising visibility, and helping break down societal barriers in sport. She regularly advocates for inclusivity, professionalisation, and the elevation of women’s football.
Honours and Recognition
- Named an Honorary Doctor by Loughborough University for her contribution to sport and football
- Recognized by Time magazine as one of 2022’s most influential people in the world
- Multiple coaching awards and keynote speaker invitations at global sporting events
Net Worth and Endorsements
Wiegman’s net worth is estimated at approximately $4 million, with a reported salary of around £400,000 per year from the England women’s team. She also earns from endorsements, including prominent brands like Nike and Adidas, and owns a management company.
Controversies
While Wiegman is widely respected, her tenure has not been without criticism. Some players and commentators have questioned her selection decisions, most notably in tense tournament moments, such as England’s defeat by France at Euro 2025. Her forthright squad management caused some senior players to voice frustration about their roles. However, these controversies have not diminished her remarkable reputation and results.
Recent News
The summer of 2025 saw Sarina Wiegman cement her legacy by guiding England to a dramatic win at the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025, making them the first England team to win a major tournament on foreign soil. Despite reports of some unrest due to her blunt management style, the Football Association has committed to her leadership until 2027, showing optimism for continued success.
Her impact goes beyond match results, with continued efforts to support women’s football’s progress at all levels, including youth development, professional contracts, and advocacy for player welfare. She remains a media fixture, keynote speaker, and role model.
FAQs About Sarina Wiegman
What teams has Sarina Wiegman managed?
What are Sarina Wiegman’s most notable achievements?
- Winning UEFA Women’s Euro with two countries (Netherlands 2017, England 2022, 2025)
- Five consecutive major tournament finals as manager
How many caps did Wiegman earn as a player?
Who is in Sarina Wiegman’s family?
What is Sarina Wiegman’s net worth?
- Estimated at $4 million, with additional endorsement income and a management company
Has Wiegman faced criticism or controversy?
- Selection decisions and squad management have occasionally drawn criticism, but success has largely overshadowed disputes
What awards and honours has she received recently?
- Loughborough University Honorary Doctorate (2024)
- Time Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People (2022)
- Multiple coaching awards and speaking engagements
Is Sarina Wiegman staying with England?
- Yes, the FA has confirmed her contract until 2027, and she remains pivotal to England’s ambitions for future tournaments
