The former Bundesliga mentor has been signed on a two-year deal to replace German Marco Kurz.

Verbeek, 56, coached at FC Nurnberg and Vfl Bochum before his latest stint at Dutch club FC Twente.

A defender during his playing days, Verbeek spent almost his entire career at Eredivisie side SC Heerenveen, amassing over 250 appearances between 1984 and 1994.

Verbeek remained with Heerenveen as an assistant coach after retirement, before enjoying coaching spells with Heracles Almelo, Heerenveen and Feyenoord.

He then joined AZ Alkmaar where he spent just over three seasons with the club, winning the 2013 KNVB Cup Final after beating PSV Eindhoven 2-1.

“I have followed Australian football for a while now and have admired the work ethic and passion Aussies have for the game,” said Verbeek.

“I can promise the Adelaide United fans that our team will be incredibly hard-working and hope to entertain you all with some high-quality football.”

-AAP

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