Hiddink to resign in July

Dutchman Guus Hiddink is to resign as coach of Russia after his contract expires on June 30, press reports said on Saturday.

“After a meeting with the RFU new chief Sergei Fursenko, I decided to step down after my contract expires,” Hiddink was quoted as saying.

“I decided to announce my decision now to give Russian football chiefs time to find a new manager.”

The Russian Football Union chief Fursenko, who was elected to the post earlier this month, confirmed Hiddink’s decision to step down in July, adding that it was the Dutchman’s own decision.

“We respect his choice,” Fursenko said in an interview with Echo of Moscow radio.

“Hiddink is a true professional. He decided to carry out his contract up to the end and I have no doubt that he would complete his duties at the very high level.”

“We are all grateful for his great work that he carried at the post of the Russian national manager and for his significant contribution into the development of the Russian football,” Fursenko added.