Former Rangers manager Dick Advocaat has made a nostalgic return to Scotland, this time at the helm of the Curaçao national football team. The Dutchman, who enjoyed a successful spell in Glasgow, is preparing his side for a friendly fixture against St Mirren, and took the opportunity to reflect on his memorable past at Hampden Park.
A quarter of a century ago, almost to the day, Advocaat led his Rangers side to a domestic treble, culminating in a Scottish Cup victory at the national stadium. Recalling that triumph, Advocaat, 76, shared a smile with reporters, stating, "I was quite successful in this stadium, so you have to be careful tomorrow." His tenure at Rangers between 1998 and 2002 saw him secure two league titles, two Scottish Cups, and one League Cup, making him a figure of significant importance in the club's modern history.
Advocaat's return comes amidst a period where Scottish football is also looking forward. Scotland manager Steve Clarke has recently expressed his belief that the national team should be consistently qualifying for major tournaments. This sentiment underscores a growing confidence within Scottish football, mirroring the ambition that Advocaat himself brought to Rangers during his time.
Curaçao's visit is part of their preparations for upcoming World Cup qualifiers, with the CONCACAF nation aiming for an historic appearance on the global stage. For Advocaat, this represents another chapter in a distinguished managerial career that has seen him manage numerous national teams, including the Netherlands, South Korea, and Russia, as well as prominent club sides across Europe.
The friendly against St Mirren will serve as valuable match practice for Curaçao, providing Advocaat an opportunity to fine-tune his squad. For Scottish football fans, it offers a chance to see a legendary figure back on Scottish soil, albeit in a different dugout. Advocaat's enduring presence in the game highlights his passion and commitment, continuing to shape footballing narratives across different continents.