Hiddink linked with World Cup coaching role

Guus Hiddink is considering an offer from Ivory Coast to be their manager for the World Cup this summer.

The experienced manager is currently employed the Russian Football Federation but recently agreed a deal to take over as boss of Turkey when his contract expires in the summer.

Ivory Coast face a tough task in South Africa as they have been drawn in Group G with favourites Brazil as well as Portugal and North Korea, so they are looking for a top manager to lead a side which will feature some quality players including Didier Drogba and Kolo Toure.

Despite the tough group Ivory Coast the World Cup odds make them 10/11 to qualify for the knockout stages and the right manager could make all the difference.

Current manager Vahid Halilhodzic is under pressure after Ivory Coast disappointed in the recent African Nations Cup and he could be sacked despite the fact he is under contract until after the World Cup.

Drogba was managed by Hiddink during the Dutchman’s time at Stamford Bridge and it is reported the striker made a personal phone call to persuade his former boss to take the reins.

According to the Daily Mirror Hiddink said: “It’s true. I have the chance to take charge of Ivory Coast. Didier Drogba has asked me on behalf of the players. The board of the federation want it too.

“I can’t decide right now yet. A lot has happened in the last few weeks. I need to solve a few things step by step before I make a decision,” he added.

If Hiddink does take the job Ivory Coast might be able to upset the football odds and go on a good run.

Meanwhile, former Belgium manager Eric Gerets claims to have turned down the opportunity to lead Ivory Coast in the World Cup as he did not want to leave his role with Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal.
source