Stefano Cusin, the new head coach of the South Sudan National football team | File picture

South Sudan Football Association has decided to part ways its Italian national team head coach Stefano Cusin after his two-year contract ended, and the football body appeals to national coaches to apply for the top job.

The national football body made the announcement on Friday in a statement published on its Facebook page.

SSFA said the decision not to renew the contract was reached mutually by the parties after Cusin’s contract ended earlier in September.

“We take this opportunity to express our gratitude to Stefano Cusin for his time and dedication to the team in these two years. His contributions and efforts have been appreciated, and we wish him the best in his future endeavors,” the body announced.

“As we move forward, the South Sudan Football Association remains committed to the development and success of our national team. We will be actively searching for a new head coach who can lead the team to new heights and achieve our goals.”

SSFA has assured the fan that it will provide further updates on the recruitment process for a new head coach in due course.

SSFA Secretary General, Victor Lawrence have called on the national coaches to apply for the position when it’s announced.

“As all of you aware we have agreed with our coach Stefano not to renew his contract, therefore I want to assure you the post will be for every one weather national or foreigner, I’m asking you all the national coaches to apply and your CV will be determined,” said Lawrence at the South Sudan Cup in Juba.

On his part, the outgoing head coach Stefano cousin thanked the football leadership of the country and entire football family for giving him the opportunity and support.

“It has been 2 wonderful years: I want to thank President Augustino Parek Maduot who has chosen me for this prestigious position and has continuously renewed his full confidence in me; I thank Abraham Mariak Albino who has always been by my side throughout the mission,” Cusin said in a statement on Facebook.

“I thank the supporters of South Sudan and the fans who never stopped making me feel their warmth; special thanks to my players, men true, warriors in soul, able to win in Brazzaville against Congo in 10 vs 11, to beat Kenya in Nairobi or to score 4 goals away from home against Djibouti in the preliminary round.”

“You were great, and I have always felt great pride to be your “coach”, you have I wrote the history of this country, I will carry you in my heart forever. Together we have achieved great achievements such as the U20 and U17 African Cup qualifiers and historic matches with the first team.”