️ Spanish specialist Jose Maria Mendes has voluntarily stepped down from his position as the head coach of the Uzbekistan national futsal team. According to the Uzbekistan Futsal Federation, the departure was prompted by sudden and serious health complications experienced by the coach.

️ Reports indicate that Mendes had been undergoing medical evaluations since the end of August due to heart failure symptoms. After initial check-ups in Tashkent, the coach was reportedly sent to Madrid for comprehensive medical examinations and specialized consultations.

️ Local Spanish physicians strongly advised the specialist to temporarily suspend all professional activities and undergo an intensive course of medical treatment. Consequently, Mendes submitted a formal resignation request to the sports federation leadership, which was accepted following a review of his condition.

️ In his farewell message, Mendes expressed his ongoing support for the national team from afar, stating his belief in their potential to secure World Cup qualification and offering his future consultancy if needed. This marked his third stint in charge of the team, having previously managed them from 2011 to 2012 and 2014 to 2017.

️ The federation has announced that a decision regarding the appointment of a new head coach will be disclosed at a later date, as the team prepares for upcoming international fixtures without their seasoned Spanish strategist.

Source: www.gazeta.uz