CFA begins post-Ivanković era with interim appointment

Following the departure of Branko Ivanković, the Chinese Football Association (CFA) has announced that Serbian coach Dejan Đurđević, currently in charge of the U20 national team, will serve as interim head coach for the upcoming EAFF E-1 Championship in South Korea this July.

The squad is expected to be youthful, with many players from the U20 side that impressed during the last AFC U-20 Asian Cup likely to be included. This tournament will serve as a valuable opportunity for young players to gain experience at the senior international level.

Global search underway – foreign coach preferred

While Đurđević will take temporary charge, the CFA has already launched a global search for a full-time head coach as part of its long-term preparations for the 2030 FIFA World Cup. According to The Paper, a state-affiliated outlet, the association intends to appoint a foreign manager rather than a domestic one – a decision consistent with previous policy.

The selection process is expected to resemble past appointments, with a global recruitment campaign already underway. Although the CFA has not formally disclosed a shortlist, reports suggest that two high-profile candidates are currently under serious consideration.

Bento and Sánchez lead the race

Among the names being strongly linked are former South Korea head coach Paulo Bento and ex-Qatar boss Félix Sánchez. Both managers boast significant experience at the international level and are viewed as progressive tacticians suited to the modern game.

Bento, a former Portugal international, previously coached in China with Chongqing Lifan in 2017. He later took charge of South Korea, leading them to the Round of 16 at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Known for his bold selections and trust in youth, Bento's style has drawn comparisons to Ivanković's early approach with China.

Sánchez, meanwhile, is renowned for guiding Qatar to their historic 2019 AFC Asian Cup triumph. The Spaniard, who spent over a decade working within Qatar's Aspire Academy and national team structures, is credited with instilling a tactical identity based on high pressing and coordinated team play – a hallmark of Spanish coaching methodology.

Both coaches are seen as being tactically astute, adaptable, and well-versed in Asian football environments. Their relative youth and open-minded approaches are also seen as preferable to more conservative options.

Cannavaro resurfaces – but not a top candidate

In a surprising twist, Italian legend Fabio Cannavaro has also reportedly submitted his candidacy to the CFA. The 51-year-old previously coached the national team on a short-term basis in 2019 and had mixed results during stints at Guangzhou Evergrande and Tianjin Quanjian. Despite a decorated playing career – including lifting the 2006 World Cup and winning the Ballon d'Or – Cannavaro's coaching tenure has yet to reach similar heights.

His return has drawn a mixed reaction among Chinese fans. While some remember his past experience in Chinese football and coaching style favourably, others remain sceptical due to the underwhelming nature of his previous spell with the national team. According to Beijing Youth Daily, Cannavaro is not currently among the top two candidates, and his chances of a short-term appointment appear slim.

Nonetheless, observers note that Cannavaro’s previous experience, close ties to former China manager Marcello Lippi, and his stated commitment to long-term development could keep him in the conversation should other talks stall.

Korean candidates unlikely – Shin Tae-yong mentioned but not prioritised

Former Indonesia and South Korea boss Shin Tae-yong has also been mentioned in media speculation, but sources suggest the CFA is currently not prioritising Korean candidates. Internal sentiment appears to lean towards non-Asian foreign coaches with broader international tournament credentials and a track record of tactical flexibility.

What lies ahead

China’s failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup has once again triggered calls for structural reform and long-term planning. Appointing a new head coach is seen as the first step in this new phase. With the EAFF E-1 Championship providing a glimpse into the next generation of Chinese talent, the pressure is now on the CFA to select a figure capable of rebuilding both results and belief in the national side.

Whether it is Bento, Sánchez, or an outside candidate, the next appointment could shape the direction of Chinese football for the next decade.