Kitchee announced today that Kim Dongjin has been appointed as Interim Head Coach. He will be joined by Director of Elite Youth Football Edgar Cardoso who will be delivering his progressive attitude and valuable insights to support Kim, working alongside Poon Man Chun who will bring a wealth of experience with the hope of bringing harmony to the Club in the pursuit of major trophies. Alex Chu will switch his focus on youth development at Kitchee Academy.
Former South Korea defender Kim Dongjin has been working as Assistant Coach since his retirement from football as a player in 2019. Kim was also appointed as Interim Head Coach of Kitchee in 2021. In his days as Interim Head Coach, Kim delivered 11 wins in 15 games before returning to his role as Assistant Coach and helping Kitchee to qualify for the East Region Knockout Stage in the AFC Champions League last season, as well as to take the Club to complete the treble during the 2022/23 campaign. He has also been appointed as Technical Director this season.
Following Edgar to join the new backroom staff will be the former BC Rangers coach Poon Man Chun. The 46-year-old, who played as a striker in his career, was a regular of the Hong Kong Representative Team. He has moved into management after hanging up his boots where he's had spells in different clubs in Hong Kong and China.
“It’s going to be exciting but challenging as it’s not easy to stay hunger all the time, especially to follow Coach Alex’s trophy-laden record, but I will spend all the efforts with Edgar and Man Chun to drive the team forward and make this a successful season for the Club. The ACL home match against Lion City Sailors next Wednesday is very important. We have to win it because we have set our sights on making to this season’s East Region quarter-finals.” Kim shared his thoughts on his appointment.
Kitchee hope that the new appointment will make the team a more successful club, achieving success in this season domestically and internationally.