Juan Carlos Osorio steps down as Mexico head coach

In the aftermath of Mexico’s seventh consecutive last-16 defeat at the World Cup, Juan Carlos Osorio announced his decision to step down from his role as the head coach of the Mexican national team.

Osorio, who led El Tri to a sensational 1-0 victory over the then World Champions Germany and beat South Korea 2-1, however could not help his side cross the pre-quarterfinal hurdle losing 0-2 to Brazil to once again end their campaign in the first stage of the knockout rounds.

After two stunning victories in their first two games of the preliminary stage, Mexico needed a draw to qualify as the top-placed nation from Group F, but a sudden drop in form combined with the horrific 0-3 defeat to Sweden meant although they qualified, they were placed in the tougher side of the knockout groups that had four former champions.

Also Read: Bengaluru FC to face Barcelona and Villarreal reserve sides in pre-season friendlies

“In my own name and in that of my backroom staff, many thanks to everyone for this unique and unparalleled professional and life experience,” said the Colombian born coach after revealing his decision in a statement on the FMF website.

The former New York Red Bulls and Sao Paulo manager had earlier requested the Mexican FA to not consider him, when deciding the coach for the next four years. He had also reportedly rejected many advances from the country’s football body for extending his contract till 2022.

Mexican FA following Osorio’s decision to step down thanked him for his “dedication, passion, commitment and affection” while working as a coach of the national team.

The 57-year-old who has many experiences of coaching in America and speaks English fluently has expressed his desire of coaching in Europe.