Just 34 days before their World Cup opener against Germany, Curaçao’s national team is in turmoil. Fred Rutten has stepped down as head coach following a player revolt, paving the way for the return of Dick Advocaat. The Curaçao Football Federation (FFK) confirmed Rutten’s resignation on Monday, and federation president Gilbert Martina confirmed Advocaat’s comeback to AFP on Tuesday, though an official announcement is still pending and may come during a press conference.
Advocaat, 78, had led the Caribbean island nation to its first-ever World Cup qualification but resigned in February due to his daughter’s serious illness. His successor, Rutten, struggled to connect with the squad, suffering heavy defeats to China (0-2) and Australia (1-5) in March. This sparked public protests from players and sponsors, who demanded Advocaat’s return. The family situation now reportedly allows Advocaat to resume his role, but the federation initially backed Rutten, escalating tensions—until now.
After an open and constructive discussion with the federation president, Rutten voluntarily offered his resignation. “A climate that undermines healthy professional relationships among players and staff cannot be allowed to develop. Therefore, it is wise to step down. Time is pressing, and Curaçao must move forward. I regret how things turned out, but I wish everyone success,” Rutten said. The FFK praised his professionalism and sense of responsibility. The board will meet on Monday to decide next steps, with a press conference scheduled for Tuesday to explain developments since February, potentially confirming Advocaat’s return. The World Cup squad has not yet been announced.
