China Dismisses Ivanković as CFA Eyes Shin Tae-yong for National Team Rebuild

The Chinese Football Association (CFA) has formally parted ways with national team head coach Branko Ivanković, following a disappointing World Cup qualifying campaign. With no compensation required under the terms of his contract, the CFA is now actively searching for a replacement—and former Indonesia boss Shin Tae-yong has reportedly emerged as a leading candidate.

Ivanković’s dismissal, though only officially communicated after procedural discussions on June 13 at the CFA headquarters, had long been anticipated. China’s early exit from the AFC Asian Qualifiers – Road to 26, capped by a record of just three wins in ten matches and a bottom-place group finish, rendered his position untenable.

Tactical Stagnation and World Cup Exit Seal Ivanković’s Fate

While Ivanković briefly looked ahead to the EAFF E-1 Championship (East Asian Cup) during the post-match press conference after a 1-0 win over Bahrain, internal consensus had already been reached that his tenure would not be extended. According to multiple Chinese outlets including Sohu.com, the FA exercised its contractual right to unilaterally terminate the agreement without paying a severance package, given the failure to meet performance targets.

Ivanković’s tactical decisions were a recurring point of contention. His insistence on a single defensive midfielder system—widely considered unsuitable for the current China squad—drew sharp criticism, particularly after heavy defeats to Japan (0–4), Saudi Arabia (twice), and even a shock loss to Indonesia. The final straw came in a home match against Saudi Arabia where, despite leading and enjoying a numerical advantage, China succumbed to a late turnaround.

In total, Ivanković managed only four wins in 15 matches and failed to inspire progress in either results or style. Established veterans such as Wu Xi and Li Yuanyi were overlooked in favour of untested China League One players like Xu Haoyang and Yang Zexiang. Against Australia, he controversially started the out-of-form naturalised striker Elkeson, who covered just 3km in the first half.

Shin Tae-yong Under the Microscope as CFA Plots Next Move

With the East Asian Cup set to begin on July 7, the CFA faces a tight timeline to appoint a successor. Signing a new foreign coach would typically require weeks of negotiation and government approval—making an interim domestic solution the most likely scenario.

Reports suggest that Zheng Zhi, former China captain and current U21 national team coach, is the top candidate for a caretaker role. However, Shin Tae-yong, the South Korean tactician who transformed Indonesia’s national team with a blend of local youth and naturalised players, is now being "closely monitored" by the CFA. Having guided Indonesia to their first Asian Cup knockout stage in 2024 and raising their regional profile significantly, Shin’s stock is high in East Asia.

Chinese fans have also voiced support for former head coach Gao Hongbo’s return, but Shin’s recent success and tactical adaptability reportedly make him a more attractive long-term choice. Still, it remains unclear whether the Korean would be willing—or available—on short notice.

New Era, Old Concerns

This marks China’s 15th managerial change in just over two decades, with most appointments failing to last beyond 18 months. The revolving door reflects not only underwhelming results but a lack of coherent long-term planning.

As the national team regroups after yet another failed World Cup campaign, the CFA is under pressure to appoint a forward-thinking manager who possesses not only tactical nous and a strong CV, but also the leadership skills and innovation required to rebuild the squad with the next generation in mind.

With the East Asian Cup looming and a potential generational shift underway—including call-ups expected for 2003-born prospects such as Ai Fei’erding and Du Yuezheng—the coming weeks may well shape the trajectory of Chinese football for years to come.