CONFIRMING earlier reports, the Philippine Football Federation announced late Tuesday night that Freddy Gonzalez has “concluded” his term as the PFF national teams director and national men’s team manager.
“It has been one of the biggest honors of my life to be a part of this team and I am so grateful to have been given the opportunity. This was a very difficult decision to make and one that required much reflection and introspection,” said Gonzalez in a statement.
“Now is the time for me to focus on other pursuits and opportunities, both personal and professional,” explained Gonzalez, 47, after nearly two years handling the critical roles, which earned both national squads greater respect in the region, particularly his management of the PH men’s side.
“I want to thank all of the players for their sacrifices and commitment to the team. They have all changed the culture of the national team. In such a short time, they have made a difference in Philippine football, for the better,” the former national team standout added wistfully.
“I am looking forward to seeing them become a force in Asia, and I will be rooting for them from the sidelines. It was an absolute privilege!”
Also stepping down is national team deputy manager Mikkel Paris, who has been alongside Gonzalez from the start as they committed themselves to forming a competitive and exciting national men’s squad that had been in the doldrums until they took over.
PFF president John Gutierrez cited Gonzalez’s contributions to the federation and thanked him for his service to Philippine football.
“We are grateful for Freddy’s dedication and contributions during his tenure with the PFF, most especially his efforts to advance our national team programs. We truly thank him for his service,” Gutierrez said in a statement.
“The PFF remains fully committed to building upon the foundations laid for Philippine football. We assure the players that we will continue Fred’s framework for the national team, diligently ensuring our programs are well-supported and thriving,” the PFF chief said.
“We are dedicated to providing every available resource, and with the support of football stakeholders, we look forward to continued progress and success for our national teams in the months and years ahead,” he added.
Under Gonzalez’s watch, the PH men’s squad was able to regain respectability, luring young and talented players who were once again proud to don the national colors, such as midfielders Sandro Reyes and Zico Bailey, striker Bjorn Kristensen, siblings and defenders Jefferson and Justin Tabinas and Santi Rublico, among others.
Gonzalez likewise established a new level of professionalism in their (national teams) operations, and helped steer the men’s National Team to a historic run in the Asean Championship (the Mitsubishi Electric Cup) and a promising start in the Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers.
