Former Singapore football coach Tatsuma Yoshida urges fans to continue trusting players, team in farewell message

Former Singapore national men’s football team coach Tatsuma Yoshida has called on to show their trust for Singapore footballers and the Singapore Premier League clubs. 

In his farewell message posted on the Football Association of Singapore’s Facebook page on Wednesday (Dec 29), the 47-year-old Japanese said: “To Singapore fans, I want to request… believe in Singapore football. You’ve got to show your support. You’ve got to bring out their potential.”

Tatsuma’s departure from the Singapore football team was announced on Tuesday (Dec 28). He cited a need to be with his family and two daughters as a reason for leaving. His contract had been due to expire only in December 2022. 

He had been with the Lions since May 2019. Under the Japanese, the Lions played an exciting brand of possession-based football, and showed plenty of promise.

In the AFF Suzuki Cup, the Lions also made it into the knockout stages for the first time since 2012. The team also earned widespread recognition in the semi-finals for the valiant effort they put up against Indonesia. 

In his farewell message, Tatsuma also thanked the association, his friends, the boys he coached in the team, and the fans for a fulfilling two-and-a-half years.

“To all of the boys, I appreciate you… Almost three years ago since I came to Singapore… they didn’t know at all about me, but they accepted me even though my English is very poor. They have always followed and supported me,” he shared.

Tatsuma also stated that the past few years as Singapore’s national football coach will be something he will never forget. 

“My coaching staff, they always respect me… I always feel comfortable working in the team. Our friendship and our relationship, I hope it keeps on going forever, my entire life, I hope,” he remarked.

The Japanese also promised to continue following the team and supporting Singapore football.

While many local football fans were devastated upon hearing the news of Tatsuma’s departure, several still sent him their well wishes.

Facebook user Thomas Hoon commented: “Thank you Tatsuma-san. To be honest, I have stopped watching local football for a long time… However, the recent run by the national team reignited my interest in local football again. Even though we didn’t win the competition, I personally felt it’s good enough when the team went out fighting and every players’ passion was clear for all watching spectators.

The SG football project is definitely a marathon and it’s a pity that you will not be around to drive this project. However, I would like to thank you for guiding our team back on track after a long time in the wilderness and wish you success in your future endeavours.”