In an attempt to turn around the dwindling fortunes of Kitchee, the club’s interim head coach, Kim Dong-jin, has expressed his readiness to make critical decisions. Having transitioned from his position as the technical director, Kim’s new role started in September. This shift was orchestrated following the club’s decision to reposition the treble-winning manager, Alex Chu Chi-kwong, into academy coaching due to an unsatisfactory season kickoff.
Kim Dong-jin, who at the age of 41 experienced losses in two out of his initial three matches as head coach, has committed to molding a team that is both dynamic and cohesive. With aspirations to match the previous season’s trophy haul, he acknowledges the urgency of upcoming challenges, especially as Kitchee is slated for a crucial AFC Champions League face-off with Bangkok United. Kim commented, “While the onset of my leadership hasn’t been particularly smooth, it’s essential to revisit foundational strategies.”
He elaborated on the differences between the current season and the last, “The quintessential Kitchee style is built on possession, creativity in the decisive third, and capitalizing on scoring opportunities. We’ve yet to hit our stride, which is reflected in our lackluster performance.” Kim’s vision is to craft a team that not only dominates matches but also imbibes the club’s ethos in their gameplay.
The coach further delved into his decision-making process, especially regarding benching star player Jakob Jantscher during the initial phase of the Champions League match against Lion City Sailors. This decision was under scrutiny as Jantscher went on to score the team’s sole goal near the match’s conclusion. He stressed that personal biases have no place in his strategy, even for players like Helio Goncalves and Fernando, with whom he once shared the Kitchee locker room. Kim emphasized, “My decisions are rooted in the betterment of the team and our results.”
Assisting Kim in this pivotal phase are Edgar Cardoso, Kitchee’s director of elite youth football, and former BC Rangers manager, Poon Man-chun. A statement from the club indicates the managerial reconfiguration aims at restoring balance and unity.
Kim shed light on the current team dynamics, “While the team has always maintained unity, we’re striving to further solidify our bond, especially given the mix of local and foreign players. We’re continually seeking avenues to foster greater harmony.”
Kim also revealed that Kitchee’s president, Ken Ng, hasn’t established rigid objectives for the team. However, Kim, a former defender himself, is zealous about progressing in the Champions League, elevating the club from domestic leagues. Reflecting on his unexpected promotion to the role of head coach, he regarded the opportunity as a privilege. As for his long-term commitment, Kim remains open-ended, saying, “I live in the present, accepting both triumphs and tribulations. The decision about my tenure ultimately lies with the club.”
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