JAKARTA - Australia has recruited former coach Guus Hiddink to help prepare for the World Cup. The experienced Dutch tactician will be invited to watch Australia's final home game ahead of the 2022 World Cup.
The 75-year-old, who ended Australia's 32-year wait for the World Cup finals in 2006 by guiding the country to the last 16, will work alongside coach Graham Arnold for the game against New Zealand in Brisbane on September 22.
"I'm very happy to go there (Australia) because every now and then when I discuss my career with people, I always highlight my experiences with the Socceroos," said Hiddink, who will end his retirement.
"This is a chapter in my career that gives me a lot of energy. I meet very nice and open-minded people, who I really like."
He will help after Arnold's right-hand man, Rene Meulensteen, was absent during his time in Europe to scout Australia's two World Cup opponents in Group D, namely France and Denmark.
Arnold, who was one of Hiddink's assistants at the 2006 World Cup, believes Hiddink's presence will inspire and motivate the squad.
"Guus is a great storyteller, so I can't wait to see his impact on the current generation of Australian players," Arnolod was quoted as saying by Antra.
"Many boys know of his international achievements and achievements but have never had the chance to meet him in person."
In addition to having coached Chelsea, Hiddink has also coached Real Madrid, PSV Eindhoven and Valencia, in addition to the Dutch, Russian and Turkish national teams.
Go easy on the Sunday sesh, we've got a special announcement early tomorrow morning #GiveIt100 pic.twitter.com/PEeMx2g3wh
— Socceroos (@Socceroos) August 21, 2022
But he is perhaps better known for his achievements in bringing South Korea to the semifinals of the 2002 World Cup.
The World Cup kicks off in Qatar on November 20.
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