Dick Advocaat is poised for a sensational return as head coach of Curacao after Fred Rutten resigned just one month before the nation's World Cup debut. The Dutch veteran led Curacao to their first-ever World Cup qualification last November, only to step down three months later due to his daughter's health issues.
Advocaat's historic achievement made Curacao the smallest country ever to reach the World Cup finals. Under his guidance, the Caribbean side went unbeaten through Concacaf qualifying, securing direct entry to the 2026 tournament. However, family concerns forced him to relinquish the role in February, paving the way for Rutten's appointment.
Rutten's tenure was short and troubled. The 63-year-old lost two friendlies in March—to China and Australia—and faced mounting pressure from players and sponsors who openly campaigned for Advocaat's reinstatement. The Curacao Football Federation (FFK) initially backed Rutten, issuing a statement on Friday that he "will represent Curacao as national head coach during the World Cup."
But just three days later, following what the FFK described as "open and constructive" talks, Rutten walked away. In a statement, he explained: "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."
Reports in the Dutch media indicate Advocaat, now 78, is open to returning after his daughter's health improved. Should he take charge, he would become the oldest coach in World Cup history, surpassing the previous record held by Otto Rehhagel (71 at the 2010 tournament).
The FFK has not officially confirmed Advocaat's return, but sources suggest negotiations are advanced. The federation faces a critical decision: restore the man who delivered their dream or risk instability ahead of the biggest games in the nation's history.
Curacao's World Cup campaign kicks off on 14 June against Germany in Group E, followed by matches against Ecuador and Ivory Coast. The team will need all the tactical acumen and morale-boosting leadership Advocaat can provide to navigate a tough group.
Advocaat's familiarity with the squad and his proven ability to organize defensively could be crucial against high-caliber opponents. His previous stint also fostered a strong team spirit, which the players have reportedly missed under Rutten.
For Curacao, the next few days are decisive. The FFK must act quickly to appoint a coach, and with the World Cup looming, Advocaat appears the logical choice. The island nation, with a population of just over 160,000, now faces its biggest challenge—and its most experienced possible savior.
Based on reporting from BBC Sport.
