Born in Utrecht, Kraay made his professional debut at DOS and also played for Feijenoord.

After his playing career, he became manager at DFC, Elinkwijk, Go Ahead Eagles, Ajax Amsterdam, AZ'67, Edmonton Drillers, Sparta Rotterdam (only two days due to some health trouble), FC Den Haag and Feyenoord Rotterdam.

He also served Feyenoord and PSV Eindhoven as a technical director, as well as the NOS and other television channels with his views on football, both commentary and analysis.

The team was first in the League, but in March 1987, he was replaced by Guus Hiddink after a loss against FC Den Bosch on penalties for the KNVB Cup.

Kraay's son Hans Jr. is also a retired professional footballer and television personality.