WILLEMSTAD – Juninho Bacuna has responded to the growing unrest surrounding the coaching situation of the Curaçao national football team ahead of the country’s first-ever FIFA World Cup appearance.
According to reports by Soccernews, rumors have circulated in recent days suggesting that part of the players’ group wanted former coach Dick Advocaat to return, despite Federashon Futbòl Kòrsou previously appointing Fred Rutten as head coach.
Speaking to ESPN, Bacuna acknowledged that the situation may appear negative from the outside, but stressed that the squad remains focused on the upcoming World Cup.
According to the Curaçao international, the players are trying as much as possible to stay out of the public debate surrounding the coaching changes.
Bacuna emphasized that the team’s primary focus remains on proper preparation and delivering a strong performance during the tournament.
The comments come during a turbulent period for Curaçao football following recent discussions about the national team leadership in the lead-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Despite the uncertainty off the field, players and federation officials have repeatedly stated that maintaining stability and concentration within the squad remains the main priority as Curaçao prepares for its historic debut on football’s biggest stage.