Feb 23 • 14:26 UTC 🇪🇨 Ecuador El Universo (ES)

Curacao, Ecuador's rival in the 2026 World Cup, is left without a coach: Dick Advocaat resigns

Curacao's national team coach, Dick Advocaat, has resigned due to health issues affecting his family and will not be present for the upcoming World Cup.

Dick Advocaat, the head coach of Curacao's national football team, has announced his resignation from the position, citing health problems concerning his daughter as the main reason. Advocaat emphasized in his resignation statement that "family comes before football" and called his decision a "natural choice," expressing his sadness at leaving the Caribbean team. His absence will be notable during the men's World Cup this summer, which Curacao is preparing for as they compete against Ecuador.

The Dutch coach has been a significant figure in global football, and his departure leaves a gap in the team. His successor, Fred Rutten, also from the Netherlands, will take over the reins of the Curacao national team. Rutten has extensive coaching experience with prestigious clubs such as PSV, Feyenoord, and Schalke 04, and he expressed his commitment to continuing Advocaat's work and maintaining the same level of dedication towards the team that Advocaat exhibited.

The resignation of Advocaat raises questions about the team's preparations as they head into the World Cup. The pressure to perform remains high, especially as they face tough competition, including Ecuador, which makes the new coach's task crucial in the lead-up to the tournament. Advocaat's recognition as an icon in the football world could provide motivation for both Rutten and the players during this transitional phase.

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