Advocaat Could Return as Curacao Head Coach
Dick Advocaat could make an unexpected return as head coach of the Curacao national football team following the resignation of his successor, Fred Rutten, just one month before Curacao's debut at the 2026 World Cup.
Advocaat previously led Curacao to an unbeaten run through Concacaf qualifying, securing direct qualification to the World Cup finals. He stepped down three months after achieving this milestone, citing concerns related to his daughter's health.
Rutten's Tenure and Resignation
During Fred Rutten's brief period as head coach, Curacao suffered defeats to China and Australia in March. Throughout this time, the Curacao Football Federation (FFK) faced pressure from players and sponsors advocating for Advocaat's reinstatement.
On Friday, the FFK expressed full support for 63-year-old Rutten, affirming that he
"will represent Curacao as national head coach during the World Cup".
However, only three days later, Rutten resigned after what were described as "open and constructive" discussions. He stated:
"A climate that damages professional relationships among players and staff must not be allowed to emerge. It is prudent to step back. Time is pressing and Curacao must move forward."
Potential Return of Advocaat
Dutch media reports indicate that Advocaat, now 78, is open to returning to his former position following improvements in his daughter's health. If he accepts, he would become the oldest coach in World Cup history.
Curacao, the smallest nation to qualify for a World Cup, is set to face Germany on 14 June in their Group E opener. Their remaining group matches will be against Ecuador and Ivory Coast.
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