Thorsten Fink steps down as Vissel Kobe manager
The german coach decided to step away due to family reasons
Vissel Kobe on Tuesday announced the resignation of manager Thorsten Fink, who has opted to return to his family in Germany.
The 52-year-old arrived at Noevir Stadium midway through the tumultuous 2019 season, helping to steady the club on the way toward its historic first-ever Emperor’s Cup title on New Year’s Day.
Kobe doubled its trophy collection by beating J1 champion Yokohama F. Marinos in February’s Fuji Xerox Super Cup.
“It it not easy to say goodbye to this city, this team or these supporters… but I have decided to return to my family,” Fink said in a statement released by Kobe.
“I still believe the team can achieve good results in the league and the Asian Champions League, and I wish the club the best of luck.”
Vissel manager Thorsten Fink gestures during a J. League first-division match against Frontale on Sept. 9 in Kawasaki.
Vissel also announced the departure of Fink’s coaching staff including assistant coaches Sebastian Hahn and Masaki Morass as well as physical coach Nikola Vidovic.