Cheng-guided PWNT comes to an end: 'Unfortunately, the situation is not workable'

Photo credits: Philippine Women's National Football Team

As the famous saying goes, "All good things must come to an end." After nearly seven years as the Philippine Women's National Football Team manager, Jefferson Cheng stepped down from his role because "the situation is not workable."

In a statement, Cheng said, "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. For several months, we tried our best to make things work, under new and very different circumstances. Unfortunately, the situation is not workable."

He also said, "Our priorities and goals do not align, and the PWNT organization that we worked hard to develop in the past years is incompatible with current methods."

Under his tutelage, the Filipinas have reached unfamiliar territories and excelled in them such as winning the AFF Women's championship for the very first time in 2022, reaching the semifinals of the 2022 AFC Women's Asian Cup which allowed the country's maiden appearance in the FIFA Women's World Cup capped off with it's first-ever win in the tournament against hosts New Zealand.

Alongside the senior team's success, Cheng also brought in quite some changes to the youth system which allowed more talented players to join the ranks of the country's age-group squads.

Despite his departure, Cheng got nothing but love and appreciation from everyone who helped him and supported the Filipinas. "I want to thank all of you for the support and kindness that you have shown me. 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."

As of posting, the Philippine Football Federation is yet to come out with a statement about Cheng's departure. The former manager of the Filipinas might've also hinted that this would not be the last time we'll see him with the Women's team, saying...

"Until next time…Maraming salamat!"