From an early age, football has played a central role in the life of Janneke Bijl. She was active as a player for, among others, s.v. Saestum, FC Twente, FC Utrecht and PSV. During that period, she won the KNVB Cup four times. She also competed in the UEFA Women’s Champions League and represented various national youth teams, as well as making a number of appearances for the senior Netherlands team.

After her playing career, Janneke chose to move into coaching. She progressed quickly within the KNVB, where she led several national youth teams and later became part of the coaching staff of the Netherlands women’s national team. Since September 2025, Janneke has been assistant head coach of the England women’s national team.

Honours

• 2025–present: Assistant Head Coach, England women’s national team

• 2023–2025: Assistant Head Coach, Netherlands women’s national team (participation in the 2023 World Cup and 2025 European Championship)

• 2021–2023: Head Coach Netherlands Women’s U16, Assistant Head Coach Women’s U19

• 2019–2022: Account Manager Eredivisie Women, KNVB

Notable facts

• Holder of a UEFA A Licence.

• Won the Dutch championship with FC Twente in 2011 and competed in the Champions League.

• Combines top-level playing experience with extensive expertise in talent development at the KNVB.

• Since 2025 assistant to Sarina Wiegman with the England women’s national team.