Vanuatu United FC Head Coach Lars Hopp. Photo: RNZ Pacific / Tiana Haxton
Vanuatu United FC Head Coach Lars Hopp said team morale remains optimistic as the club prepares for its OFC Pro League debut, despite his shock resignation just days out from the opening round.
"I think it's still very positive. You know, we've got a great bunch of players, and they know what they can influence is on the field. So (we) have good training sessions and obviously good performances on match day. And this is what we focus on, and this is everybody's job and focus right now," Lars Hopp said.
Hopp and the teams General Manager Christian Happel announced earlier this week they would step down from their roles, following what they described as differing views on the clubs strategic direction.
In a joint statement, the Vanuatu Football Federation and Vanuatu United FC said the resignations were the result of "differing views on the club's strategic direction," the statement said.
"There are simply different opinions on how the future of the club should be managed and developed. We believe absolute alignment among all stakeholders is vital for long-term success," they said.
"As we no longer feel fully aligned, we concluded that stepping aside is the right move for everyone involved."
In the statement Hopp and Happel reflected on their time developing the Vanuatu football scene, saying significant progress was made.
"Together with an exceptional group of players - remarkable both on and off the pitch - we have achieved a great deal in a short time. From building a professional football club from the ground up to delivering success on the field, including the unforgettable MSG Cup victory with the national team, we look back with immense pride and gratitude," they said.
Vanuatu United FC Head Coach Lars Hopp gives his team some pointers. Photo: RNZ Pacific / Tiana Haxton
The clubs board acknowledged the unfortunate timing of their resignations, but praised the contributions both men have made to Vanuatu football.
"We are saddened to see Christian and Lars step down just as VUFC is ready to kick off its first professional match this week," the board said.
"Their professionalism, vision, and dedication have set new standards for our football landscape."
Happel's final working day with the club will be 23 January, while Hopp will remain in his role until 26 January, to lead the team through round one of the OFC Pro League.
Despite the uncertainties off the field, the club's immediate focus remains on its three matches in the opening round between 17 and 23 January, including today's season opener against Fiji's Bula FC.
Meanwhile, the Vanuatu Football Federation has already begun advertising to fill both the head coach and general manager positions.
