Hong Kong Premier League club Eastern SC is set to embark on a search for a new head coach following the immediate departure of Roberto Losada. The club announced the decision on Thursday, stating that Losada is leaving to fully focus on his new role as interim head coach for the Hong Kong senior men's team. Losada had just been appointed to the interim position last week, replacing Ashley Westwood.

Losada's departure comes after more than four years with Eastern, a period marked by significant achievements despite the club's limited resources. Eastern acknowledged Losada's contributions, particularly in developing young players and leading the team back to the Asian stage. During his tenure, Losada led Eastern to lift the Senior Shield last season and the FA Cup the year before that. He was also named coach of the year for the past three seasons.

In a statement released on social media, Eastern SC indicated they would be looking towards Europe to find Losada's replacement. This suggests a desire to bring in a coach with a different tactical approach and experience, potentially signaling a new direction for the club. The club has appointed assistant coach Cristiano Cordeiro as the temporary head coach while the search is underway.

Losada himself confirmed his impending departure just days after being named interim boss for Hong Kong, stating that their recent 2-1 victory over Tai Po "could be my last game". He expressed his commitment to Hong Kong football, stating that he has given his best for Hong Kong for the past 15 years because he is a Hongkonger.

The Football Association of Hong Kong, China appointed Losada as interim coach as part of an open recruitment process aimed at attracting a boss with a global vision and professional competence. Losada will take charge of the side for the Guangdong Cup games over the New Year. He has already selected 51 players in the preliminary squad for the Guangdong-Hong Kong Cup, which begins at the end of the month.

The decision for Eastern to seek a European coach reflects a growing trend in Asian football, with clubs increasingly looking to Europe and South America for coaching expertise. It remains to be seen who Eastern will ultimately select, but the appointment will be crucial as the club seeks to build on Losada's legacy and compete for honors in the Hong Kong Premier League.