BOGOTA, Sept. 4 (Xinhua) -- Colombia national team soccer coach Jose Pekerman announced on Tuesday that he did not wish to renew his contract and added that he wished the national team the best ahead of the Qatar 2022 World Cup.
"I'm sad not be be continuing; look at the guys and see what they achieved. The team drives them. To see Colombia so high in the FIFA national team rankings was so exciting. We achieved our goals," Pekerman told press at a formal press conference.
Pekerman coached the Colombian national team for six years, leading them to the quarterfinals of the Brazil 2014 World Cup.
However, a poor showing from Colombia during this year's World Cup in Russia led to questions over the continuation of his tenure.
The ex-coach said that the Colombian national press, who had reported rumours of his potential return to manage Argentina's national team, had told lies about his exit.
"I have always maintained my conduct and did not offer myself to any other teams. I have no talked to other national federations. I have respect for where I am and I live in Colombia permanently. Many lies and cruelties were told. It is very disappointing," he said.
President of the Colombian Football Federation Ramon Jesurun expressed his sadness that the highly regarded coach would not be in the dugout for the qualifying stages of the Qatar 2022 World Cup.
"We don't have plan A, B or C for a new coach. Pekerman's exit is a huge surprise," he added.
