Hiddink snubs Ivory Coast

Dutchman turns down World Cup offer

Last updated: 13th March 2010   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Hiddink snubs Ivory Coast

Hiddink: Not joining Ivory Coast

Related links

Teams

Also see

Guus Hiddink has rejected the chance to manage the Ivory Coast at this summer's World Cup finals.

Hiddink was the African nation's top choice to lead them at the finals in South Africa following the sacking of Vahid Halilhodzic after a disappointing African Cup of Nations campaign.

The Dutchman is currently contracted to Russia but will move to take charge of Turkey when his deal expires.

Hiddink has snubbed overtures from Ivory Coast ace Didier Drogba to lead the Elephants in South Africa as he wants to concentrate on his new role with Turkey.

"Although I had a great conversation with the federal president and chief executive Jacques Anouma, I myself had already decided not to go," Hiddink told De Telegraaf.

"It was a decision taken to avoid unnecessary confusion.

"Though I must admit that with the Ivory Coast it has not been easy."

Hiddink said Turkey's tour of North America in May would take priority as it was necessary for him to assess the players before taking up the job in August.