Czech Republic coach Miroslav Koubek stepped down on Monday following the team's early exit from the World Cup.

The decision was made by mutual agreement, Koubek and Czech Football Association president David Trunda said in a joint statement.

"The coach offered me his resignation during a personal meeting today, and after an open and honest discussion, I decided to accept it," Trunda said.

Koubek accepted responsibility for the team's poor performance at the tournament, where the Czechs lost to South Korea and Mexico before drawing with South Africa. They finished bottom of Group A with just one point.

His resignation came as a surprise, however. After returning from the World Cup, Koubek had indicated he wanted to remain in charge, while Czech national teams general manager Pavel Nedvěd had publicly backed him to continue.

Koubek said growing criticism also influenced his decision.

"A media campaign against me based on half-truths and fabricated stories also contributed to my decision," he said. "In such an atmosphere, continuing my work with the Czech national team no longer makes sense."

The Czech Football Association has not yet announced a successor.

The 74-year-old coach took charge in December on a two-and-a-half-year contract and guided the Czech Republic to its first World Cup qualification in 20 years, securing playoff victories over Ireland and Denmark.

His resignation came just hours after the team's leading striker, Patrik Schick, announced his retirement from international football following the World Cup elimination.