Czech Boss Quits After Qualifying

Jaroslav Silhavy has stepped down as Czech Republic manager after securing qualification for Euro 2024.

Silhavy, 62, took charge in September 2018 and led the Czech Republic to the quarter-finals of Euro 2020.

The Czech Republic booked their place at next summer’s European Championship by beating Moldova 3-0 on Monday.

“Even though we are happy now, we had already decided before the game not to continue,” Silhavy said.

“I informed the president [of the Czech Republic football association] Petr Fouska about it. The pressure was already enormous – sometimes I didn’t even understand it. This also contributed to our decision.”

Silhavy oversaw 26 victories during his 56-game stint in charge, drawing 10 and losing 20, and guided them to second place in Group E during their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign.

The Czech has had domestic managerial spells with a host of clubs including Viktoria Plzen and Slavia Prague.

“It’s not just about me, but I have the entire implementation team behind me. I am convinced that we have done the job and we are leaving behind good results,” Silhavy said.

Just 24 hours before Monday’s crucial Group E game, Silhavy sent three players, including West Ham’s Vladimir Coufal, home after they went to a nightclub on Saturday.