"Now bring in someone who understands the Chinese Super League." Chinese soccer is mobilizing domestic coaches and foreign experts amid a series of failures, trying once again to usher in reform.
In the final Asian qualifying match for the 2026 North and Central America World Cup, China lost to Indonesia 0-1, confirming their elimination from the main event regardless of the outcome of the remaining game. Chinese soccer, which has not had a relationship with the World Cup stage for over 20 years, once again faced the humiliation of early elimination. Following this, on the 10th, they secured a 1-0 victory against Bahrain, but it was just a meaningless win.
In particular, the defeat against Indonesia dramatically showcased the ineffectiveness of Coach Ivanković's regime. After their last-place elimination was confirmed, Ivanković immediately left China, and the anger of local fans and commentators reached its peak. Chinese commentator Shi Qingcheng noted, "Even the four-back formation was confusing," pointing out tactical incompetence, and added, "Let's stop blaming the weather and foreign players."
Amid this situation, the figure that emerged is Seong-Won Seo, the head coach of Chengdu Rongcheng. Shi Qingcheng actively recommended him through his social media, stating, "At the very least, we need a coach who understands the Chinese Super League. Coach Seo knows the CSL better than anyone, is practical, young, and full of ideas." Under Coach Seo's regime, Chengdu Rongcheng has been consistently achieving results based on stable tactical operations and player trust.
Chinese soccer has one more option. That is Shin Tae-yong, the former head coach of the Indonesia national team. 'CNN Indonesia' reported on the 15th that "the Chinese Football Association has included Coach Shin Tae-yong in the candidate pool for the next national team head coach." Interestingly, this is the same person who, less than a year ago, called Chinese soccer a "sh*tty soccer."
Coach Shin Tae-yong successfully implemented a generational change and a naturalization strategy while leading the Indonesia national team, proving competitiveness in the Asian Cup and World Cup qualifiers. While his leadership is highly regarded, it remains uncertain whether he can withstand the complicated environment and structural limitations in China. Moreover, after being unilaterally dismissed by the Indonesian Football Association last January, he is currently gaining administrative experience domestically, which means that the idea of a "coaching return" itself requires careful consideration.
Ultimately, Chinese soccer is at a crossroads, deciding whether to bring in a domestic coach who knows their league best or give another chance to a foreign coach validated on the Asian stage. The East Asian Football Federation (EAFF) E-1 Championship, scheduled for July 2025, is likely to be the first test of the new regime, but there remains a possibility of competing in a temporary setup without a formal coach.
China still boasts the world's largest population and capital, but its national team has failed to qualify for the World Cup for the sixth consecutive time since 2002. Relying solely on changing coaches without overcoming recurring structural limitations is closer to "enduring desperately" rather than achieving "reform."
The current state of seeking out individuals previously mocked and only now mentioning coaches who understand the league. Chinese soccer is still struggling desperately to pursue reform.
[OSEN]