Chinese media have begun targeting the South Korean coach.
Shandong Taishan, led by coach Choi Kang-hee, faced Chengdu Rongcheng in the FA Cup round of 16 on the 20th and was eliminated after losing 1-3. Shandong recorded a disappointing sixth place in the first half of the Chinese Super League with a record of 7 wins, 3 draws, and 5 losses.
Shandong fans are systematically chanting, “Choi Kang-hee out,” demanding his dismissal. Recently, Chinese media have also criticized coach Choi Kang-hee’s tactics, contributing to calls for his dismissal.
During an official press conference, coach Choi Kang-hee made headlines after arguing with probing Chinese reporters. This seems to have led Chinese media to systematically join in on the 'kill Choi Kang-hee' campaign.
Sohu.com stated, “Shandong is no longer a strong team. Foreign player Cressan has failed to score in 10 matches. No matter how much the players are changed, it will be meaningless if coach Choi Kang-hee does not leave. If the coach does not change, the team will collapse,” casting a shadow over the situation.
The media can criticize as much as they want when the team is underperforming. However, the criticisms from Chinese media lack solid grounds. The reasoning is simply that the team is led by a South Korean coach, so they should change the leader.
The media urged, “Shandong has no hopes of winning anymore. The veterans and coach Choi Kang-hee should be let go together, and young players should be given opportunities. Coach Choi Kang-hee is cowardly shifting the blame. A decision on the coaching change must be made as soon as possible.”
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