Jeonbuk Hyundai announced that Gus Poyet, who made history by winning both the K League 1 and Korea Cup in the 2025 season, will step down after a short but impactful season.
Coach Gus Poyet, who played a key role in team operations such as tactics and training, felt psychological pressure and burden due to the resignation of his long-time companion, coach Thanos, with whom he had shared many moments over 16 years.
Operating under a strict discipline system and having built his own coaching system, the coach decided to step down after concerns about the stability of his leadership due to organizational rifts, the club reported.
The club tried to persuade Coach Gus Poyet, who expressed his intention to resign, promising efforts for the next season and the honor restoration of Coach Thanos, but ultimately decided to respect and accept the coach's decision.
Jeonbuk Hyundai, which reached the promotion playoffs last season, appointed Gus Poyet, who previously served as the head coach of the Greek national team, as the new head coach to lead the team's resurgence and usher in a new era.
Officially appointed in December last year, Coach Gus Poyet reorganized the team by implementing strict dietary management and rigorous physical training starting from the winter training camp in January.
Subsequently, achieving a 22-game unbeaten streak in the K League 1, he led the team's revival, helping the players rediscover their championship DNA and ultimately reclaim the K League 1 trophy after 4 years.
Coach Gus Poyet proved his leadership by winning both the K League 1 and Korea Cup within just one year of his appointment, surpassing the initial goals set at the time of his appointment.
In addition to his leadership, he received much love from the fans for his dedication and passionate display on the field.
After discussions with the club about his future, Coach Gus Poyet plans to depart for the UK after the Korea Cup final and the end of the season, leaving with a heavy heart.
Expressing his regret to the fans, Coach Gus Poyet said, "I am leaving the team with a heavy heart. I am truly grateful to the fans, and I am sorry and regretful for not being able to bid a proper farewell." He added, "The year spent with the fans was an unforgettable historic time in my coaching career. The passion shown by our fans and their love for the team will remain deeply in my memory and heart. I sincerely thank you. I dream of returning to Korea with a smile and will support my team, Jeonbuk Hyundai, from afar."
Meanwhile, the club plans to promptly appoint a successor coach who fits the team's operating philosophy and system to ensure a smooth transition for the 2026 season.
