Gustavo Poyet has been officially appointed as the new head coach of Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors, one of South Korea's most prestigious football clubs. The announcement came on December 24, 2024, marking the Uruguayan's return to Asian club football after previously managing Shanghai Shenhua in China. Poyet, who is 57 years old and boasts extensive experience both as a player and manager, was recognized for his leadership qualities and adept communication skills necessary for top-tier competition.
Poyet’s coaching career spans several notable clubs across Europe, including Brighton & Hove Albion, Sunderland, AEK Athens, Real Betis, and most recently, the Greek national team. His appointment at Jeonbuk reflects the club's ambition to reverse its fortunes after battling relegation last season, which they narrowly avoided through playoffs.
Lee Do-hyun, the general manager of Jeonbuk Hyundai, emphasized the thoughtfulness behind Poyet’s selection, stating, “Choosing a head coach was not easy, as there were many outstanding candidates domestically and internationally. After much deliberation, we considered both the team’s current situation and long-term objectives. Poyet’s clear football vision and passion for the team left a strong impression, aligning with our club’s philosophy and vision.”
Poyet expressed enthusiasm about the new role, declaring it as “a new challenge” and asserting, “I am determined to achieve success by working closely with the players and fans. I believe communication and trust can surpass tactics and strategy in football. I will give my all to help Jeonbuk Hyundai reclaim its position as the best team in the K League.”
His extensive playing career with clubs like Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, and Zaragoza, alongside his managerial stints, have shaped Poyet's footballing philosophy. He aims to build on this experience to develop Jeonbuk's strategies on the field, focusing on fostering teamwork and resilience.
Poyet is bringing along his long-time coaching staff, including assistant coach Mauricio Taricco, fitness coach Panagiotis Voulgaris, and analysis coach Diego Poyet, all of whom have worked with him for several years and share his footballing beliefs. This established team chemistry is expected to facilitate a smooth transition and effective communication as they establish their presence within the K League.
Despite concerns about his previously mixed results—such as his short tenure at Universidad Católica marked by disappointing achievements—Jeonbuk Hyundai remains optimistic. They have hired local coaches Jung Jo-gook and Hwang Hee-hoon to bridge any gaps with respect to the nuances of Korean football, ensuring Poyet is supported as he acclimates to the new environment.
Reflecting on his commitment to making this opportunity fruitful, Poyet stated, “It was not easy to decide, but I am here to listen, learn, and grow with the team. Setting the right conditions for our players is my primary goal.”
With preparations underway for the team's first official event of the 2025 season—a training camp set to begin on January 2—Poyet will soon arrive in South Korea to get hands-on with the team and commence intensive training.
The Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors organization anticipates not just improvements on the field but also hope for renewed support from fans who have felt the brunt of disappointing performances. Poyet's promise to create a culture of trust and open communication is imperative for rekindling this relationship.
Overall, Gustavo Poyet’s appointment at Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors brings renewed hope and expectation for both the players and supporters. His track record and strategic insight could be the keys needed to revitalize the team's performance and restore its reputation as a powerhouse within the K League.
