South Korea FA sack Klinsmann over semi-Final exit, criticism

The Korea Football Association (KFA), announced on Friday, that they have dismissed national team coach Juergen Klinsmann, following South Korea’s elimination in the semi-finals of the Asian Cup last month. The sacking comes after the KFA’s National Team Committee, an advisory body, recommended Klinsmann’s dismissal on Thursday, with Technical Director Hwangbo Kwan, citing doubts over the German’s leadership abilities.

Since the 2-0 loss to Jordan which extended South Korea’s 64-year Asian Cup drought, Klinsmann has faced mounting criticism from fans and politicians calling for the 59-year-old’s sacking. KFA President Chung Mong-gyu stated Klinsmann had failed to meet expectations in areas like game management, player relations and work ethic needed to make the team more competitive.

Klinsmann’s popularity plummeted during the tournament over his perceived inappropriate conduct, such as smiling after poor team performances. His leadership was also scrutinised following an altercation between players on the eve of the semi-final which left captain Son Heung-min with a finger injury. The winger played with strapped fingers against Jordan.

Throughout his tenure, Klinsmann drew flak for primarily operating out of Los Angeles despite pledging to spend time in South Korea. In an Instagram post ahead of his sacking, he thanked players, staff and fans for their support during his “incredible journey” with the team.

Klinsmann, a 1990 World Cup winner with West Germany, was appointed last year after Paulo Bento resigned following the team’s 2022 World Cup elimination. His stint began poorly as South Korea went five games without a win, but their form rebounded ahead of the Asian Cup. However, they registered no shots on target against Jordan, ranked 64 places lower.