[Saba Sports News] According to South Korean media, Hong Myung-bo, who has just stepped down as South Korea’s head coach, was once involved in a conflict with team captain Son Heung-min. Reports state that after the match against Mexico, Son Heung-min was talking with his teammates in the dressing room. At that moment, Hong Myung-bo walked over and asked, “What are you talking about?” Son Heung-min replied, “We’re discussing matters related to the game.” However, Hong Myung-bo snapped angrily, “Why are you the one talking about this? That should be my job.” In the group stage of this World Cup, South Korea came from behind to beat the Czech Republic 2-1 in their opening match. They lost 0-1 to Mexico in the second fixture, but only needed a draw against South Africa in their final group game to qualify for the knockout stage. Nevertheless, Hong Myung-bo left veteran players including Son Heung-min out of the starting lineup for the game against South Africa. South Korea went on to lose the match and failed to progress from the group. Following the early group-stage exit at the World Cup, Hong Myung-bo took responsibility for the poor results and announced his resignation.
The editor believes that controversies surrounding the South Korean national team continue to linger. Beyond the dressing room conflict, there are also reports that after the squad boycotted media interviews during the World Cup, Hong Myung-bo ordered the players to resume press engagements, yet some players including Son Heung-min refused to comply.