Paulo Wanchope Resigns After Fight in Panama vs. Costa Rica U-23 Match
Costa Rica manager Paulo Wanchope has resigned from his post following an ugly incident that marred the under-23 match between Los Ticos and Panama on Tuesday. The former Manchester City star engaged in a brawl with a security guard after he appeared to push a child after the match.
According to Sports Illustrated, Wanchope, who attended the match as a spectator, tried to enter the pitch after the 0-0 draw before suddenly pushing the child. He then threw a punch at the security guard, before the two exchanged several blows. You can see footage of the incident by clicking here.
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The Associated Press reports the Costa Rican football federation said in a statement Wanchope has decided to “step aside,” adding he wanted to enter the pitch because he was irritated with the officials.
The 39-year-old replaced Jorge Luis Pinto after the 2014 World Cup and immediately led Costa Rica to a win in the Copa Centroamericana. Los Ticos made it to the quarter-finals of the 2015 Gold Cup, and the future of the team looked bright under Wanchope.
OptaJack's Eduardo Mendez believes the positive influence he had on the squad and, particularly the emerging talents, will be felt for years:
Wanchope is yet to comment on the incident, and following the news of his resignation, it may be a while before we learn the full story of what prompted the fight.
His resignation follows just weeks after a similar incident involving Mexico's Miguel Herrera, who was sacked for reportedly striking a journalist, per the Guardian's Tim Hill.
