After facing calls for his resignation post-Asian Cup, Jürgen Klinsmann was sacked as coach of the South Korean national football team, just a year into his tenure.
The decision stemmed from a disappointing defeat to Jordan in the Asian Cup semifinals and concerns regarding his handling of the players.
Chung Mong Gyu, president of The Korea Football Association (KFA), also under pressure to step down, expressed his determination to lead the team’s restructuring efforts.
Amid intense criticism toward the association and the national team, Chung Mong Gyu made his first public appearance in ten days at an official event. Following a lengthy meeting, the association’s leadership opted 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, informed of his dismissal while in the United States, shared a farewell message on his social media just before President Chung’s press conference, expressing his gratitude. He said,
“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 various reservations, took place in February 2023. Criticism arose over his tactical shortcomings and frequent travels abroad.
Despite leading a team with high expectations, the early exit from the Asian Cup semi-finals, along with internal team conflicts, eroded confidence in his leadership, leading to his premature departure before completing his contract’s first year.
While President Chung, who also faced calls for resignation alongside Coach Klinsmann, accepted overall responsibility, he refrained from offering explicit details on the planned course of action.