Written by Youngsub Lee
Football Tribe Korea
2019 FIFA U-20 World Cup runner-up, manager Jeong Jeong-yong has finally accepted K League 2 side, Seoul E-Land FC’s 3 years offer. Jeong’s contract with the KFA (Korea Football Association) will terminate from December as he takes on his new role at the capital team.
On leaving KFA, he remarked “I appreciate the association’s effort to provide me with diverse opportunity, support, and concern for the past 10 years. I will show improvement as a coach.”
The 50-year-old manager has achieved great success during his stint with the KFA. In June, the South Korean U-20 national team he led reached the finals, beating various title contenders with the likes of Argentina, Senegal, and Ecuador. The feat remains as South Korea’s best achievement in FIFA men’s tournaments.
On meeting with the media, he said “I honestly have not thought of joining this club. I am not aware of the players as well.
“I joined the club for I think the team has the passion and are desperate. I wish to help the team settle into Korean football. My personal goal is to make ‘Seoul Derby’ [Seoul E-Land and FC Seoul] happen. E-Land can perform well if they begin to understand football.”
This is the second time the Daegu-born manager joining Seoul E-Land. He had been part of the club from 1993 to 1997 as a center-back.
Meanwhile, the returnee was awarded the ‘Coach of the Year’ prize from the AFC (Asian Football Confederation) this week.
The award recipient now eyes to continue his successful career in the K League.