The Korea Football Association announced on Friday its decision to terminate its association with former Germany coach and striker Jürgen Klinsmann, citing criticism of his leadership, particularly following a 2-0 loss to Jordan in the semi-finals of the Asian Cup earlier this month.
KFA president Chung Mong-gyu stated, “The KFA has decided to change the national head coach following a comprehensive review,” highlighting Klinsmann’s failure to meet expectations in various aspects of coaching, including tactics, personnel management, and work attitude essential for team competitiveness.
The decision came after the National Team Committee, an advisory body of the KFA, recommended Klinsmann’s dismissal, expressing concerns about his ability to lead the team effectively.
Criticism of Klinsmann’s management extended to his remote coaching from the United States and his demeanor in defeat, which was unpopular among South Korean fans and media.
Despite the criticisms, Klinsmann expressed gratitude to his players, acknowledging his tenure as “an incredible journey” on social media ahead of the anticipated decision on his future with the team.
Klinsmann, renowned for his prolific career as a player and coach, faced challenges in transitioning his success on the field to coaching roles with national teams.
Despite winning accolades as a player, including the 1990 World Cup with West Germany, and achieving success with clubs like Bayern Munich and Inter Milan, his coaching career yielded limited silverware, with the continental Gold Cup being his only notable achievement with the US national team more than a decade ago.
