"Coach Bento received much criticism; insistence on a four-year contract led to failed renewal" Jeong Mong-gyu (Chairman) clarifies

*This content was translated by AI.

Former Speaker Chung Mong-gyu clarified that the reason he could not extend the contract with Portuguese coach Paulo Bento, who was the head coach during the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, was due to a disagreement over the contract period.

Chung Mong-gyu Jeon (Chairman) appeared as a witness at the National Assembly Culture, Sports and Tourism Committee's hearing on the Korea Football Association on the 30th, responding to questions from Democratic Party of Korea Lim O-gyeong (Rep.) regarding Coach Bento's renewal by saying, "There was also much criticism against Coach Bento," while reflecting on that time.

He added, "With the same players and using the same tactics for four years, there was a lot of criticism saying, 'We are worried about what comes after Bento.' The reason we could not renew the contract is because Coach Bento insisted on a four-year deal."

Chung Jeon (Chairman) said, "I proposed that he serve as coach for one year after the World Cup until the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Asian Cup. If we reached at least the semifinals in the (Asian Cup), I proposed extending the contract through the (North, Central America and Caribbean) World Cup. However, Coach Bento rejected this proposal and replied that he would not do it unless it was a four-year contract."

Continuing, Chung Mong-gyu Jeon (Chairman) explained, "At that time, there was much criticism that Coach Bento did not give opportunities to many players. I proposed a conditional four-year contract, but it fell through because (Coach Bento) refused to accept a contract with conditions attached."

Meanwhile, earlier in the day, Jeong Mong-gyu (Chairman) appeared at the hearing and said, "I worked hard for the development of Korean football during my tenure, but I feel sorry for any shortcomings. As president of the Football Association, I deeply feel my responsibility and am sincerely apologetic for not meeting expectations," bowing his head.

He further added, "After resigning as president of the Football Association, I will focus on management as a businessman and contribute to society. Through today's hearing, I will listen carefully to the lawmakers' opinions and answer diligently."

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*This content was translated by AI.