Guus Hiddink resigns as Anzhi coach

PanARMENIAN.Net - Dutchman Guus Hiddink on Monday, July 22 resigned as coach of wealthy Russian football team Anzhi Makhachkala after a year and a half on the job, the team said, according to RIA Novosti.

Hiddink, 66, leaves just two games into the new Russian Premier League season, of which Anzhi drew one and lost the other.

"This decision was not easy for me, but I've always said that my mission at Anzhi could end when the team is able to develop and continue to grow by itself, without my participation," Hiddink was quoted as saying on the Anzhi website.

"Now that time has come. I am convinced that a great future awaits the team, and I am happy that I was a part of this vast football project."

Since signing for Anzhi in February 2012, Hiddink played a key role in converting billionaire owner Suleiman Kerimov's wealth into success on the pitch, combining stars such as three-time Champions League winner Samuel Eto'o with a large share of developing talent including many up-and-coming Russian players.

Hiddink took Anzhi to a team-record third-place finish in the league last season, as well as the Russian Cup final and a strong run in the Europa League.

He will be replaced by his former assistant and fellow Dutchman Rene Meuleensten, once part of Sir Alex Ferguson's coaching team at Manchester United, who only joined Anzhi on July 1.