Guus Hiddink quits Anzhi as Barcelona speculation mounts

Guus Hiddink has stepped down as the manager of Anzhi Makhachkala after a year and a half in charge of the wealthy Russian club. He will be succeeded by the former Manchester United first-team coach René Meulensteen, who arrived at Anzhi in July after leaving Old Trafford.

Following the news, Hiddink was immediately made the 1-3 favourite by bookmakers to take over at Barcelona following Tito Vilanova’s resignation.

The Russian season is just two games old and Hiddink leaves Anzhi after recording one draw and a defeat. He said it was always his intention to move on once the club found a way to develop itself.

“This decision was not easy for me, but I’ve always said that my mission at Anzhi could end when the club is able to develop and continue to grow by itself, without my participation,” Hiddink said. “Now that time has come. I am convinced that a great future awaits the club and I am happy that I was a part of this vast football project.”

Hiddink, backed by a series of eye-catching transfers including Willian and Christopher Samba, led the side to a club-record third place finish in the Russian league last season and also guided them on a run in the Europa League.

“Anzhi FC has taken the decision to accept the request of the head coach and end their employment relations,” the club said in a statement. “The club sincerely thanks Guus Hiddink for his significant contribution to the club’s development and wishes him success in his future career.”

Hiddink passes the baton to Meulensteen who was Sir Alex Ferguson’s first-team coach at United but opted to move on after the Scot retired from the Old Trafford hot-seat.

Hiddink's destination is unclear but news of his departure from Anzhi immediately led to speculation he was set to succeed Tito Vilanova at Barcelona.

The widely-travelled Dutchman has managed in Spain before at Barca's arch-rivals Real Madrid as well as Real Betis and Valencia.

Barca announced on Friday Vilanova was standing down to continue to receive treatment for cancer.

Guardian Service