Wellington Phoenix men’s coach Giancarlo Italiano has resigned.
After his team lost 5–0 to Auckland FC at Sky Stadium in Wellington on Sunday night, he shared the news. The heavy defeat was one of the club’s worst-ever home losses, and Italiano said it was “unacceptable” and that he took full responsibility. He told the club he was stepping down so someone new could bring fresh energy and help the team refocus.
Italiano said the Phoenix conceded three “sloppy” goals and then became rattled after the first one went in. He explained that big mistakes in important moments have hurt the team this season, and he blamed himself for setting the environment and choosing the line-up.
A key moment came when goalkeeper Josh Oluwayemi drifted outside his area, and a long clearing kick bounced over his head into an empty net. With Wellington trailing 4–0, Oluwayemi was substituted at half-time. Italiano admitted his half-time message was angry, telling players they were now playing for the badge and for honour. He said the team fought harder in the second half, but the match was already out of reach.
The loss was Wellington’s sixth straight defeat to Auckland FC in the Kiwi derby over two seasons. The club thanked him for his work and said it wishes him well, but has not yet announced who will take over next.
