Jeff Cheng steps away as Filipinas manager citing indifference

Jeff Cheng.–Photo from PFF

Jeff Cheng has announced his departure as team manager of the Philippine women’s football team after a tenure marked by a historic debut in the Fifa Women’s World Cup last year.

Cheng said Sunday he’s stepping away from his role, citing indifference with the current setup, though he stopped short of mentioning any party, particularly the Philippine Football Federation.

The PFF is eight months into the presidency of John Gutierrez, who succeeded long-time chief Nonong Araneta.

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It was last Thursday when Cheng informed the PFF, through the director of national teams Freddy Gonzalez, of his decision.

“Last Thursday, I informed the PFF Director of National Teams that I am stepping away from my role as Team Manager of the women’s teams,” Cheng said in a statement relayed to media members.

“For several months, we tried our best to make things work, under new and very different circumstances. Unfortunately, the situation is not workable.

“Our priorities and goals do not align, and the [Philippine women’s national team] organization that we worked hard to develop in the past years is incompatible with current methods.”

Cheng has managed the women’s team program way before the pandemic, achieving countless achievements along the way.

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The Philippines has made it to two Women’s Asian Cups in 2018 and 2022, the latter edition resulting in a spot in the 2023 World Cup.

The Filipinas produced one victory in the World Cup, defeating co-host New Zealand in the group stage on Sarina Bolden’s first-half header.

Coach Alen Stajcic handled the Filipinas in that incredible run before fellow Aussie Mark Torcaso called the shots in last year’s Hangzhou Asian Games and Olympic Qualifying Tournament.

Cheng also handled the program of the women’s youth teams, producing a maiden stint in the Women’s U-17 Asian Cup held this year.

“I want to thank all of you for the support and kindness that you have shown me,” said Cheng. “It is through you that our efforts have not gone unnoticed and I am grateful to have shared some of the best football experiences with all of you. “