The Czech Football Association (FACR) announced on Monday that they have ended their partnership with national team manager Miroslav Koubek after the team was knocked out in the opening round of the World Cup.
Koubek, 74, had previously guided the squad to their first World Cup appearance in two decades following successful play-off victories against Ireland and Denmark earlier this year. However, the team struggled in the tournament hosted by North America, securing only a lone point from a draw against South Africa while suffering losses to South Korea and Mexico.
FACR leader David Trunda confirmed the departure, stating that the coach proposed his resignation during a meeting, which was subsequently accepted. Koubek noted that the decision was influenced by a critical media narrative, claiming that working under such conditions was no longer feasible.
Alongside the coaching change, veteran striker Patrik Schick announced his retirement from international football. The 30-year-old Bayer Leverkusen player, who finished his national career with 26 goals in 56 appearances, recently called for significant reforms within the team. The Czech side now looks ahead to the 2026-2027 League of Nations, where they are scheduled to compete in a group featuring Croatia, England, and Spain.
