Andersen says HKFA bosses couldn't forgive his 2024 departure, talks collapsed
SCMP · 1 SOURCESabout 1 hour ago2 MIN
Summary
Former Hong Kong head coach Jorn Andersen has revealed that his attempt to return to the Hong Kong national team earlier this year collapsed because senior Football Association of Hong Kong, China (HKFA) officials had not forgiven him for his previous departure. Andersen, who guided Hong Kong to their first major tournament in 55 years at the Asian Cup finals, had been sounded out by the association in February about replacing Ashley Westwood, who left after Hong Kong's Asian Cup qualifying defeat to Singapore last November. Despite widespread support from fans, talks broke down and Roberto Losada was permanently appointed instead. Andersen ultimately accepted a "great offer" from Myanmar in July.
Key Points
- Andersen was approached by the HKFA in February while unemployed following his departure from Chinese club Yunnan Yukun, after guiding them to the China League One title
- He held discussions with technical director John Morling, general secretary Charles Cheung Yim-yau, and board member Johnny Woo Wai-man about taking over from Ashley Westwood
- The Norwegian coach stated that "the ones who decided ultimately didn't want to do it" because they were "so disappointed the last time I left, and they haven't forgiven me"
- The HKFA refused Andersen's request to include a release clause allowing him to leave if a better offer emerged, which contributed to the breakdown in negotiations
- Andersen resigned from his Hong Kong post in May 2024 after 2½ years in charge to take over Yunnan, who then earned promotion to the Chinese Super League
Why It Matters
The breakdown of Andersen's potential return highlights the persistent friction between the Norwegian coach and HKFA leadership, even as fans celebrated his achievements in ending Hong Kong's 55-year wait for a major tournament appearance. The association's decision to appoint Losada permanently, rather than accommodate Andersen's contractual requests, suggests a prioritization of institutional stability over the popularity of a proven international manager. This episode underscores the challenges facing Hong Kong football as it seeks consistent leadership ahead of future competitive cycles .
The breakdown of Andersen's potential return highlights the persistent friction between the Norwegian coach and HKFA leadership, even as fans celebrated his achievements in ending Hong Kong's 55-year wait for a major tournament appearance. The association's decision to appoint Losada permanently, rather than accommodate Andersen's contractual requests, suggests a prioritization of institutional stability over the popularity of a proven international manager. This episode underscores the challenges facing Hong Kong football as it seeks consistent leadership ahead of future competitive cycles .