Srečko Katanec has stepped down from the Uzbekistan national football team head coach role due to health reasons. He was reported to be battling with cancer.
The press service of the Uzbekistan Football Association said that the Slovenian, who had been in helms of the team since August 2021, took a decision to terminate the contract valid until 2025.
"In his address, Srečko Katanec noted with regret that he was currently unable to fully and professionally perform his duties. He expressed gratitude to the UFA for their constant support and effective cooperation. He also wished the team success in the World Cup qualifying rounds," the statement said.
The Football Association expressed gratitude to Srečko Katanec for his work in managing the national team and wished him swift recovery and resumption of coaching activities.
The UFA added that it had begun work searching for a "worthy candidate" for the position of head coach of the Uzbekistan national team.
