By Kazeem Ajibola Shoyebo
The Federashon Futbòl Kòrsou has moved to reappoint veteran Dutch manager Dick Advocaat as head coach of the Curaçao national football team following the resignation of Fred Rutten, just weeks before the nation’s historic debut at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
In a statement released after board meetings held Monday night, the federation confirmed that Rutten had made his position available and announced its intention to appoint Advocaat, with discussions over the final details of the agreement still ongoing.
“FFK is handling this process with due care, in accordance with existing agreements and the principles of good governance, with the aim of ensuring stability, clarity, and continuity around the national team,” the federation stated.
The dramatic managerial reversal comes only months after Advocaat stepped down from the role in February due to concerns surrounding his daughter’s health. Rutten, another experienced Dutch tactician, was subsequently appointed to lead the Caribbean nation into its maiden World Cup appearance.
However, Curaçao struggled under Rutten during recent international friendlies, suffering defeats to China and Australia, while reports emerged of growing unrest among players and sponsors who wanted Advocaat restored to the position. Reuters reported that Rutten ultimately resigned in an effort to preserve harmony within the squad and avoid further tension inside the camp.
Federation president Gilbert Martina had earlier denied suggestions of a player-led revolt and insisted the federation’s decisions would not be dictated by sponsors or members of the squad. Nevertheless, following Rutten’s resignation, discussions with Advocaat reportedly accelerated immediately.
If finalized, the appointment would see the 78-year-old become the oldest head coach in World Cup history, surpassing the record previously held by former Greece manager Otto Rehhagel.
Advocaat is widely credited with transforming Curaçao into one of football’s most remarkable modern success stories after guiding the small Caribbean nation to its first-ever World Cup qualification in 2025. The team secured qualification after a decisive draw away to Jamaica, becoming the smallest nation by population to reach the tournament.
The former Netherlands, South Korea, Rangers, Sunderland and Fenerbahçe manager initially left the role citing family priorities, insisting at the time that “family comes before football.”
Curaçao are scheduled to begin their World Cup campaign on June 14 against Germany national football team before facing Ecuador national football team and Ivory Coast national football team in Group E.
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