Here Comes Umberto Coelho

Umberto Coelho (53) is about to open a new era for the Korean soccer.

Upon arrival at Incheon International Airport yesterday morning, Coelho, a new coach of the Korean national soccer team, surprised his fans and reporters by saying a greeting in Korean.

He said in beige coat, "I feel a huge responsibility in taking the helm of the South Korean national team. It is the team that advanced to the semifinal in the last World Cup. I will just do my best."

He continued, "The soccer of South Korea has marked its place in the world in all respects. To topple the South Korean team, other countries will do their best. Thus, what really matters is the future. We have to prepare ourselves."

He diagnosed, "The world is pursuing a fast soccer. So, I have to employ strategies based on speed. South Korean players are full of spirits and power based on teamwork. But its defense line does not seem to have coped well with swift attacks."

Coelho signed up a contract with the Korean Football Association (KFA) on Jan. 15th for one and a half years. For five days, he will stay in Korea and try his best to comprehend the current status.

Today morning, he is expected to visit KFA`s chairman Chung Mong-jun and other executive members of the association. Then, he will hold an official press conference. Finally, he will meet with KFA technical members and discuss plans to operate the national team in the future.

On Feb. 5th, he plans to visit the Seoul World Cup Stadium and the soccer training center in Pahjoo. The following day, he will visit the Portuguese Embassy in Korea and look for a house to live in.

On Feb. 7th, he is to leave back for Portugal. Then, on 12th, he will take in the A-match between South Korea and Netherlands. Then, he will meet Guus Hiddink, former national coach of South Korea, and seek his advice. In early March, he is to come back to Korea and will lead the national team in earnest. The March 29th game against Columbia is to be the first game of Coelho as the South Korean national team coach.

Soon-Il Kwon stt77@donga.com