South Korean coach Kim Pan Gon decided to resign from his position as tactician for the Malaysian national team, Tuesday (16/7).
South Korean coach Kim Pan Gon once brought Malaysia to 130th position in the FIFA rankings.
Malaysia occupies this position thanks to its victory over Kyrgyzstan with a score of 4-3 in the second round of the 2026 World Cup Qualifications. This positive result made Harimau Malaya’s position shoot up from 137th position to 130th FIFA ranking in November and December 2023.
This is an achievement in itself for Pan Gon and Malaysia. This is because Malaysia has made the highest achievement in the last 18 years by occupying that position.
Pan Gon’s report card while managing the neighboring country’s team is also quite good. Of the 35 matches played, the South Korean coach led Malaysia to 19 wins, seven draws and nine defeats.
Malaysia’s position in the FIFA rankings has now fallen to 135th in the world. Malaysia is below Indonesia, which is one level better in the 134th FIFA ranking, referring to the FIFA rankings released on June 20.
Malaysia could not maintain their position because of several disappointing results obtained. One of them was when they lost twice to Oman in away and home matches in Group D of the 2026 World Cup Qualification.
Pan Gon’s resignation was announced by the Football Federation of Malaysia (FAM) via its social media account.
“I currently have a sad and sorry message to convey to everyone. Today, I have decided to step down as head coach of the Malaysian national team due to my personal commitments.”
“I apologize for the disappointment this may cause to many people,” wrote FAM’s caption featuring a video of Kim Pan Gon’s resignation press conference.
Left behind by Pan Gon, Malaysia appointed Spanish tactician Pau Marti Vicente as interim coach. Vicente was previously Pan Gon’s assistant.
There is no further information regarding Pau Marti Vicente’s position, whether he will become a permanent coach or whether Malaysia will look for a new coach.
