Jos Luhukay (born 13 June 1963 in Venlo, Netherlands) is a Dutch former footballer who went on to a lengthy coaching career in German football. After finishing his playing days he moved into management, building a reputation for steadying teams and working in both the second tier and the top flight of German football. In 2016 he took charge of VfB Stuttgart.

Playing career

Luhukay spent his active playing years with clubs in the Netherlands and Germany. While he did not reach global fame as a player, his experience in the regional and national leagues gave him a foundation in the game that later informed his coaching. His transition from player to coach followed a common path of starting with smaller teams and youth sides before moving into the professional ranks.

Coaching and professional development

Following retirement from playing, Luhukay began coaching at lower levels and gradually advanced into senior management. Over several seasons he served as head coach for multiple German clubs, operating in both the 2. Bundesliga and the Bundesliga. His appointments often involved clubs seeking promotion, recovery after difficult campaigns, or consolidation in a higher division.

Style and reputation

Observers describe Luhukay as a pragmatic manager who prioritizes organization, work ethic and structure. He is frequently entrusted with teams in transition and is regarded as a coach capable of improving defensive stability and bringing a disciplined approach to training and match preparation. He has also worked with younger players and integrated squad members into competitive setups.

Notable roles and impact

  • Long-term presence in German professional football, including roles in both top two tiers.
  • Reputation for guiding teams through promotion campaigns or helping to avoid relegation.
  • Experience in player development and rebuilding squads during transitional periods.

Jos Luhukay remains a recognized figure in European club management circles for his steadying influence and experience across multiple seasons of German football. His career illustrates a common route from modest playing days to a sustained coaching career at professional level.