SEOUL -- South Korean football fans are expressing outrage towards Chung Mong-gyu, the head of the country's football association who notified Jurgen Klinsmann, the former head coach of the national men's football team, of his dismissal. Although the German coach was sacked amid controversies over his insufficient leadership, football fans claim the football federation's president bears greater responsibility.
The 59-year-old German coach was fired by the Korea Football Association (KFA) on February 16. Chung pointed out Klinsmann's failure to meet expectations in managing players, demonstrating leadership, and improving his work ethic as reasons for his dismissal. The head coach faced intensified criticism following South Korea's 2-0 loss to Jordan in the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Asian Cup semifinals in Qatar earlier this month. South Korea ranked 23rd in FIFA rankings as of February 7, while Jordan was in the 86th position.
Despite Chung's announcement that the German coach would be replaced, South Koreans still expressed their anger towards the national football team's governing body for appointing Klinsmann as head coach, as well as its president. "Until Chung and the current football association step down, no issues will be resolved," zeuspark4408, a YouTube user said. Another commentator named LoTAWN also criticized on YouTube that Chung is not taking responsibility.
Klinsmann, who was appointed by on February 27 of last year, was dismissed even before completing one year in his role. Amid growing calls for the dismissal of the German coach, media outlets reported that there were conflicts among football players, centered around captain Son Heung-min and midfielder Lee Kang-in. According to Dispatch, a domestic online media outlet, Son grabbed Lee's collar and Lee swung his fist at Son.
Chung mentioned that he would consider assisting with the financial compensation linked to Klinsmann's dismissal. Meanwhile, the South Korean national football team is set to play qualifying matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Thailand on March 21 and 26.
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