World Cup manager with sick daughter QUITS job as ex-Premier League boss speaks out

View Image

Dick Advocaat has left his role as Curacao manager just four months ahead of the 2026 World Cup , to care for his sick daughter. The 78-year-old helped the Dutch Caribbean nation become the smallest state to qualify for the prestigious tournament in November.

However, he will not coach his team as they vie for glory at the summer's competition. As per Dutch outlet AD , the former Sunderland AFC manager has made the decision to look after his daughter, who is 'experiencing serious health problems.'

Meanwhile, Advocaat himself released a statement explaining his departure. He said: "I've always said that family comes before football. This is therefore a natural decision.

"That said, I will greatly miss Curacao, its people, and my colleagues. I consider qualifying the smallest nation in the world for the World Cup one of the highlights of my career. I am proud of my players, staff and board members who believed in us."

As a result of Advocaat's departure, Fred Rutten will take control of Curacao's first-team. An official statement from Curacao read: "Dick Advocaat has stepped down with immediate effect as head coach of the national football team of Curacao.

"The Dutchman recently led the team to the upcoming FIFA World Cup . Fred Rutten has been appointed as his successor. The 78-year-old coach has decided to devote his full attention to his daughter, who is facing health issues."

Elsewhere, Gilbert Martina - who is the president of the Curacao Football Federation - added: "His decision commands nothing but respect. Dick has made history with our national team. Curacao will always remain grateful to him."

JOIN US ON FACEBOOK! Latest news, analysis and much more on Mirror Football's Facebook page

Rutten was also quick to wish Advocaat and his family well after the news broke that he will step up as his replacement. the 63-year-old, who has previously managed FC Twente , PSV Eindhoven , Feyenoord and Schalke 04 , said: "It is a difficult time for Dick and I wish him and his family strength.

"Dick is an icon in world football. It is truly an honour to continue his work.

"I have spoken extensively with him and his staff and will continue along the same path. Curacao can expect the same dedication and commitment from me."

Content cannot be displayed without consent

It comes a major blow to Curacao, given the wealth of experience that Advocaat holds at the highest level in the managerial game. On top of stints with the Netherlands national team , PSV and Rangers , the Hague-born head coach also enjoyed a brief Premier League tenure with Sunderland AFC in 2015.

Stepping up as a short-term successor to Gus Poyet in the March, his first win with the club came in the form of a 1-0 triumph over Newcastle United in the Tyne-Wear derby the following month. Despite having his contract extended with the club for 2015/16, Advocaat ultimately resigned in the October following a poor start to the season, Sam Allardyce taking his place.

Sky has slashed the price of its Essential TV and Sky Sports bundle ahead of the 2025/26 season, saving members £192 and offering more than 1,400 live matches across the Premier League, EFL and more.