German legend unites Korean fans, players and politicians and gets sacked via online call
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Reading Time: 2min | Fri. 16.02.24. | 14:30
Jurgen Klinsmann ends his coach tenure in Asia, and his exit brought on some dystopian vibes
A coach sacked after a disappointing result - probably the most common thing you'll hear about football. But the story of Jurgen Klinsmann and his latest sack is quite unique.
The former legendary German striker, 58, was shown the exit door by the South Korean Football Association after just one year in the dugout. However, it was not done the usual way, but Klinsmann and his assistants were summoned via online video call as he joined the meeting from his home in the United States.
A Korea Football Association advisory body recommended sacking head coach Juergen Klinsmann. South Korea, 23rd in the FIFA rankings, were beaten by 87th-ranked Jordan 2-0 in the Asian Cup semi-finals, prompting calls for Klinsmann’s dismissal https://t.co/lUqsu0x8Nf pic.twitter.com/vng2rp0P53
— Reuters (@Reuters) February 16, 2024
Moreover, tensions were rising around the football association's headquarters as furious protesters gathered to demand Klinsmann's exit. Interestingly, they were not the only ones wanting to see the immediate sacking of his following Asian Cup semi-final exit on February 6. Klinsmann's earlier decision not to move to South Korea and remain in the U.S. was not well received by the broader audience, including politicians.
His sacking was confirmed at a press conference held on Friday with Korea Football Association president Chung Mong-gyu.
"The KFA has decided to change the national head coach following a comprehensive review," he said.
"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.
"Klinsmann's attitude and competitiveness as head coach has fallen short of people's expectations, and it was agreed that this would not be improved going forward, so we have decided to change leadership ahead of 2026 World Cup qualifying games."
To all players, my coaching staff and all Korean football fans with sincere gratitude!
— J_Klinsmann (@J_Klinsmann) February 16, 2024
Thank you so much for all your support 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!
Keep on fighting 💪 pic.twitter.com/ff1EAgEoN5
On the other hand, in his farewell message, Klinsmann took to social media to show his gratitude to the supporters.
"Thank you so much for all your support 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," Klinsmann wrote in a post shortly before the KFA officially announced its decision.
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