Home / Sports / Coach Moreno Backs Son Amidst Player Discord
Coach Moreno Backs Son Amidst Player Discord
29 Oct
Summary
- Son Heung-min retains captaincy despite team friction reports.
- Key players considered quitting but were selected.
- Coach Moreno emphasizes player communication and unity.
South Korean national team coach Robert Moreno has publicly backed captain Son Heung-min amidst speculation of player discord. Moreno confirmed Son will continue to lead the squad for upcoming friendlies against Saudi Arabia and Qatar.
The selection includes prominent Europe-based players Kim Min-jae, Hwang Hee-chan, and Hwang In-beom. Reports indicated these players were prepared to leave the national team last month.
Moreno stated he has prioritized communication since taking interim charge following South Korea's World Cup performance. He emphasized that resolving differing opinions is crucial for team success, even in top squads.
The coach's tenure is set to conclude after the friendlies, though a potential extension for the Asian Cup in January is under consideration by the football association.
Speculation about team divisions intensified after defender Kim Min-jae's visible frustration during a recent friendly. However, Moreno assured that the team is healthy and united, urging focus on collective effort.
South Korea's football association has also requested fans cease excessive personal attacks on players, reflecting the scrutiny following their World Cup exit.
