After Asian Cup disappointment

South Korea have parted ways with manager Jurgen Klinsmann after their disappointing exit at the Asian Cup, where they were among the favorites to lift the trophy, Express UK reports.

South Korea has decided to let go of their manager, Jurgen Klinsmann, following a disappointing performance at the Asian Cup. The team, which had performed well in the 2022 World Cup, fell short against Jordan in the semi-finals. A clash between squad members, including Spurs captain Son Heung-min and Paris Saint-Germain’s Lee Kang-in, added to the difficulties. “We’ve reached a consensus that Klinsmann cannot exercise his leadership as national team head coach for various reasons and that a leadership change is necessary,” said Hwangbo Kwan from the Korea Football Association. Klinsmann, who took over from Paulo Bento in February 2023, had started well with a victory over Bahrain but struggled in subsequent matches.

The first group game was the only one Klinsmann’s team managed to win within 90 minutes. They had to rely on penalties against Saudi Arabia in round 16, and an extra-time goal from Son helped them beat Australia in the quarter-finals.

“Klinsmann has failed to display managerial capability and leadership expected of a national head coach in areas ranging from tactics and personnel management to work attitude and others required to bring about competitiveness to the team,” said the KFA president in the statement confirming Klinsmann’s departure. His tenure ended much earlier than his contract, which was supposed to run until the end of the 2026 World Cup.

Regarding the disagreement with Son, PSG’s young player Lee made a statement on social media. “It was reported that I had an altercation with Son ahead of the Asian Cup semi-final,” the 22-year-old wrote.

“I apologize to the many people who are disappointed in me. I know how invested fans are in me as a player. From now on, I will try to support the senior players and become a better player and person.”