Stielike "Retiring from Coaching Position at the End of This Season"

[Asia Economy Reporter Joselgina] Uli Stielike (66, Germany), former head coach of the South Korean national football team and current manager of Tianjin Teda (China), has announced his intention to retire from coaching after this season.

According to Yonhap News Agency, on the 11th (Korean time), in an interview with German broadcaster Sport1, Stielike was asked, "Do you want to coach again in Germany?" He replied, "This season is my last contract as a coach. I do not want to take on a coaching position anywhere, including Germany, in the future."

However, he added, "Despite the COVID-19 situation, I extended my contract this year, so I have an obligation to fulfill it," and "Although I could end the contract, both the players and club officials rely on my contract," indicating he will remain in his position through this season. Currently, the Chinese Super League's opening has been indefinitely postponed due to the impact of COVID-19.

Stielike took charge of the South Korean national team on September 24, 2014, and led Korean football for 2 years and 9 months until he was dismissed in June 2017. Afterwards, he was appointed head coach of Tianjin Teda in the Chinese Super League, leading the team to remain in the first division, and at the end of last year, he extended his contract with Tianjin for one year.

Regarding his plans after this season, Stielike said, "I will no longer choose a profession that requires me to leave my home in Spain."