NAC Breda's shareholder foundation board concluded, following an internal investigation and external review, that Pierre van Hooijdonk had no conflict of interest in the decision to let his son Sydney leave the club on a free transfer. It said the decision had been taken in accordance with the club's governance procedures.

Sydney van Hooijdonk joined Portuguese club Estrela Amadora. Pierre van Hooijdonk stepped down as NAC's technical adviser amid the controversy over his alleged involvement in his son's departure, which also prompted criticism from supporters.