Schrock-ing revelation: Dooley triggers Schrock resignation

Manila, Philippines – Now it can be told.

The Philippine Azkals star midfielder Stephan Schrock finally broke his silence following the news of his sudden resignation from his national duties.

Related story: Azkals rocked with Schrock shock resignation

The Fil-German midfielder apparently had a falling out with new Azkals coach American Thomas Dooley.

“I want to be honest with you because you deserve the truth. As long as coach Dooley will lead the team, I won’t wear the jersey of Azkals again,” Schrock dropped the bomb on his Facebook page Monday night Manila time.

Schrock’s shocking revelation came on the heels of an official statement from the Azkals earlier that the reason behind his resignation is his “desire to pursue new challenges.”

“Because of all the accusations, I want to talk to you directly. It’s not true that I don’t want to play for the Philippines anymore. It was always a pleasure for me and I feel still honored to have the possibility to play for my country, the country where my heart belongs,” Schrock said.

The falling out reportedly happened during the Azkals’ silver medal run in the AFC Challenge Cup where the 27-year old Fil-German saw limited action due to a right hamstring injury.

Despite being hobbled by the injury, Schrock insisted to play in the finals against eventual champion Palestine. He got his wish but was substituted at the half which did not sit with him well.

On their way to the 0-1 loss in the finals, Schrock was also subbed during the Azkals’ twin (2-0) victories against Laos and Turkmenistan. He came off the bench in the 3-2 semifinal win against host Maldives.

“I’d have to be dead to not play [in the finals],” Schrock was quoted by Phil. Daily Inquirer following the semifinal win where he admitted he was only 40 or 50 percent at best.

After they fell short of winning the title, Schrock announced on his Instagram account that he is taking a break from his Azkals duties but vowed to return.

Then the shocking news of his reported resignation broke out early Monday with a vague reason fueling speculations that there was a deeper issue that led to Schrock's decision. 

Despite of the falling out with the Azkals’ new leadership, Schrock expressed his gratitude to all who have supported and wished the team well.

“Anyway, I’m still one of you and I’m proud to be one of you. I wish you all the best, for football and for the team. I hope I will make my comeback one day! Thank you all for your support. Keep going! Maraming salamat po! Ingat,” added the 27-year old Bundesliga star.

Schrock flourished and became one of the national team’s key players under former coach and German national Hans Michael Weiss.

After playing with Eintracht Frankfurt in Bundesliga last season, Schrock has switched teams and decided to return to his old team SPVgg Greuther Feuerth in the German second division.