Ulsan HD Parts Ways with Manager Kim Pan-gon Amidst Struggles; Shin Tae-yong Reportedly Set to Take over
Ulsan HD has parted ways with manager Kim Pan-gon, a move that comes after a significant downturn in the team’s performance.The club’s decision, reportedly influenced by fan discontent and a string of poor results, marks a dramatic shift from Kim’s initial success with the team.
| Ulsan HD Kim Pan-gon. [사진=한국프로축구연맹] |
kim Pan-gon was urgently brought in mid-last season to manage Ulsan HD when Hong Myung-bo was called to the national team. He inherited a team that had fallen to fourth place in the regular league but managed to steer them to a K-League 1 three-peat, earning applause for his philosophy of valuing “hungry players.”
However, the team’s fortunes have reversed dramatically in less than a year. Ulsan HD has experienced a string of disappointing results, including three losses in the Club World Cup and a quarterfinal exit from the Korea Cup. their K-League 1 form has also suffered, with six consecutive winless matches (three draws and three losses). Over their last ten games, Ulsan has failed to secure a single victory, accumulating three draws and seven losses. This slump has seen them drop to seventh place in the league, raising concerns about their ability to even qualify for final A (the top six teams after 33 rounds), let alone contend for a fourth consecutive league title.
The fan sentiment has turned decidedly against Kim Pan-gon. Supporters initiated a cheering boycott and voiced their dissatisfaction with direct slogans during recent matches against Newcastle and Kupang. These vocal protests are believed to have been a significant factor in the club’s decision to dismiss Kim.
The process of Kim’s departure has also drawn criticism. Reports indicate that Kim was informed of the club’s decision only after the news had already surfaced in the media. Kim expressed his disappointment, stating, “I was contacted by the club after the media report.”
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| Former indonesian soccer team manager Shin tae-yong. [사진=AFC] |
Furthermore, the reported successor, former Indonesian national team manager Shin Tae-yong, was also identified through media leaks, adding to the controversy surrounding the managerial change.
Despite the club’s decision, Kim Pan-gon has not yet been formally removed from his position.He is scheduled to manage a farewell game for Suwon FC on May 2nd. The Korean Football Association has not yet received official documentation regarding a change in management, meaning Shin Tae-yong cannot officially take over instantly. Kim Pan-gon will continue to lead the team until official procedures are completed.
In related news, CEO Kim Kwang-guk has also decided to step down from his role at the club, expressing gratitude for his time there amidst the recent events. An official from the Ulsan team commented on the situation, stating, “There’s no need to discuss the problem. I cannot give a clear answer.”
The swift transition from “savior” to “dismissed” for Kim Pan-gon highlights the often harsh realities of professional football management. The K-League continues to experience a period of flux, mirroring the intense heat of the current season.
