Soccer-Paraguay coach resigns after just five months in charge

Juan Carlos Osorio has resigned as Paraguay coach only five months into the job and having led his side in just one friendly match.

The Colombian was appointed in September after three years in charge of Mexico and coached his new team to a 1-1 draw with South Africa in November. Rumours have abound for days that he was unhappy in the South American nation and he confirmed his departure at a press conference in the Paraguayan capital.

"I am here to tell you that by mutual agreement with the APF (Paraguayan Football Association) and for my own family reasons, I unfortunately cannot continue as the Paraguay national coach," Osorio said. Paraguay will now look to appoint a replacement in time for the Copa America, which begins in Brazil in June. The Paraguayans are drawn in Group B, along with Argentina, Colombia and Qatar. (Writing by Andrew Downie; Editing by Toby Chopra)