Portuguese Coach Departs South Korea Amid Post-World Cup Chaos

João Aroso, 53, is set to depart from the South Korean national team following their chaotic World Cup campaign, which saw them crash out in the group stage. The decision, as A BOLA has learned, had already been made by the Portuguese coach, whose contract was nearing its end. However, a series of bizarre behind-the-scenes incidents made his continued association with the Seoul federation, where he served as assistant to head coach Hong Myung-bo, virtually impossible.

A string of unusual episodes significantly contributed to this outcome. Among other things, the team faced intense fan backlash upon their return to the airport after their elimination from the North American tournament. The crisis escalated with the direct intervention of South Korean President Lee Jang-myung, who publicly admitted he was "perplexed" by the team's performance. The complete breakdown culminated in Hong Myung-bo's comical escape, as he reportedly traveled disguised to the United States to evade media and public pressure.

The former right-hand man to Fernando Santos and Paulo Bento remains in Asia to finalize the bureaucratic and logistical details of his departure, but his resolve to leave the project is unwavering. The coach is already considering future opportunities. Placed in Group A of the finals alongside co-hosts Mexico, South Africa, and the Czech Republic, the South Korean team started well, defeating the Europeans 2-1. However, subsequent 1-0 losses to Mexico and South Africa sealed their premature exit, failing to reach the Round of 16 and plunging the country's football into a deep federative crisis.