Veteran Dutch manager Dick Advocaat has made a surprise return as head coach of Curacao national football team just one month before the country’s historic World Cup debut.
Advocaat stepped down from the role in February after guiding Curacao to their first-ever World Cup qualification last November, citing concerns over his daughter’s health.
However, following improvements in her condition, reports in the Netherlands suggested the 78-year-old was open to returning, and Curacao Football Federation president Gilbert Martina confirmed the appointment on Tuesday.
Advocaat is now set to become the oldest coach in World Cup history.
Rutten Departs After Brief Spell in Charge
Advocaat replaces fellow Dutchman Fred Rutten, who resigned after only a short spell in charge.
Rutten oversaw defeats to China and Australia in March, while the Curacao federation faced mounting pressure from players and sponsors to bring Advocaat back.
Although the federation publicly backed Rutten on Friday, the situation changed rapidly and his departure was confirmed three days later following what were described as “open and constructive” discussions.
“A climate that damages professional relationships among players and staff must not be allowed to emerge,” the federation said in a statement.
“It is prudent to step back. Time is pressing and Curacao must move forward.”
Historic Tournament Awaits Curacao
Curacao will become the smallest nation ever to compete at a World Cup when the tournament begins next month.
They open their Group E campaign against Germany national football team on 14 June before facing Ecuador and Ivory Coast.
Before heading to the tournament, Curacao will travel to Glasgow to face Scotland at Hampden Park on 30 May in one of Steve Clarke’s side’s final warm-up fixtures ahead of the World Cup.
