Football

LOUDSPEAKER: Thanh Hoa FC president Nguyễn Văn Đệ said that all football centres should learn from his example. Photo thethao247.vn

THANH HÓA — Thanh Hóa FC president Nguyễn Văn Đệ has hit out against criticism of him over the resignation of coach Nguyễn Thành Công, calling his critics "ignorant".

Last Friday, reports emerged the club's board had told the coach his starting lineups and substitutions would have to be approved by a majority of the coaching staff, leading the coach to tender his resignation days later, despite having the club to four wins and two draws in his eight matches in charge.

Much criticism was levied against the board’s decision, with some calling it a ridiculous intervention.

“I affirm that the decision is completely legal and has a basis for implementation,” Đệ said.

“The coach decides the expertise, but I'm the president and manager of the club. If the club has a bad result, who will be responsible? It's me.

“At first, they gave me a list of nine players. But a lineup requires 11 players, so we just asked them to complete the lineup.

“I didn't force anyone to quit. I am the manager, responsible for the performance of the team, so I need to ask for better management. My instructions are very reasonable, in accordance with the law," he said.

Đệ also expressed confidence in new coach Mai Xuân Hợp despite the disapproval of the fans, saying they don’t understand his management.

“I always wonder why Thanh Hóa has so much talent but no one can lead the club. Last year, I decided to work with Mai Xuân Hợp, but the fans criticised him for not having enough experience, causing me to hire Fabio Lopez.

“Now I have decided, I will let Mai Xuân Hợp lead the team. But if Thanh Hóa don’t have good results in the remaining two matches, maybe, I will find another one.”

According to Đệ, his decision was made with love and passion for the club in mind.

“I’m sure I did the right thing. Football management centres should learn from me and incorporate this into their curriculum.

“Two years ago, FLC Group left, if I didn't manage it then the club wouldn't be what it is today,” Đệ said.

“The provincial leaders encouraged me, so I tried, but in fact, I never take any personal profit for myself.

“Managing a football club, apart from passion and responsibility for the homeland, is really not fun. I am unhealthy but still have to work really hard for the club," he said. VNS