After facing demands for his resignation following the Asian Cup, Jürgen Klinsmann was dismissed as coach of the South Korean national football team after just one year in the role.
This decision was prompted by a disappointing loss to Jordan in the Asian Cup semifinals and concerns over his management of the players.
Chung Mong Gyu, the president of The Korea Football Association (KFA), who also faced calls to step down, stated his intention to remain in his position to oversee the team's restructuring efforts.
Amidst severe criticism directed at the association and the national team, Chung Mong Gyu made his first public appearance in ten days at an official event. Following a two-and-a-half-hour meeting, the association's leadership decided to dismiss Coach Klinsmann.
President Chung Mong Gyu stated, "Coach Klinsmann did not exhibit the leadership qualities we anticipated from a national team coach. This includes aspects like game strategy, player relations, and professional demeanor, all crucial for enhancing the national team's competitive edge, and it was deemed unlikely to improve. Therefore, it has been decided to change the helm for the 2026 FIFA World Cup second-round qualifiers in North, Central America, and the Caribbean."
Coach Klinsmann, notified of his firing while back home in the United States, posted a farewell message on his social media just before President Chung's press conference, expressing, "To all players, my coaching staff and all Korean football fans with sincere gratitude! Thank you so much for all your support in taking us to the semi-final of the Asian Cup and an incredible journey over the last 12 months with not losing 13 games in a row before the semi-final! Keep on fighting."
Klinsmann's appointment as the South Korean national team coach, despite numerous concerns, occurred in February 2023. He faced criticism for tactical deficiencies and taking frequent overseas trips. Despite leading one of the most highly anticipated squads, the team's elimination in the Asian Cup semi-finals, coupled with internal conflicts among players, significantly undermined his leadership, ultimately resulting in his dismissal before completing a full year of his contract.
While President Chung, who was also subject to resignation demands alongside Coach Klinsmann, acknowledged overall responsibility, he evaded providing clear answers regarding the course of action.
Unbroken run of 13 wins before the semi-final loss and that's not good enough? Wow, I pity the next poor sap who takes the job.
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