Robert Moreno Named Interim Coach of South Korea After World Cup Setback
The Korea Football Association has appointed former Spain head coach Robert Moreno as the interim manager of their national football team. This decision follows the resignation of Hong Myung-bo after South Korea’s disappointing exit in the group stage of the recent World Cup held in North America.
Moreno, 48, will be the first Spanish coach to lead the South Korean side. His contract could be extended for the upcoming Asian Cup, depending on his performance evaluations.
A New Chapter Amidst Internal Challenges
The appointment comes during a difficult period for the KFA, which recently faced police raids linked to the controversial hiring process in 2024 under Hong’s management. The federation also issued a public apology following accusations concerning inappropriate conduct involving foreign referees.
Moreno brings international experience, having briefly taken over as Spain's head coach in 2019 when Luis Enrique stepped down due to a family illness. Their relationship later soured publicly when Enrique returned ahead of Euro 2020, accusing Moreno of disloyalty.
Addressing Controversy and Professional Integrity
Before joining South Korea, Moreno managed clubs including Monaco and Granada. Russian media had accused him of using artificial intelligence tools during his time at Sochi, claims he denied in an open letter to Marca. He clarified, “I have never used ChatGPT or any AI to prepare matches, decide line-ups or choose players. That is completely false.”
He emphasized that all decisions are made collaboratively with his coaching staff and highlighted his expertise in data and video analysis as foundational to his career.
Upcoming Matches and Asian Cup Prospects
Moreno will lead South Korea through a series of home friendlies against Ecuador and Uruguay in September, followed by games versus Venezuela and Uzbekistan in October. Additional fixtures may be scheduled for November.
The KFA confirmed Moreno might continue as head coach for the Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia from January 7 to February 5, subject to how the team performs in these upcoming matches. These games will be critical for rebuilding trust and confidence among fans and stakeholders.
