China's national team stirs controversy with new head coach

The Chinese Football Association (CFA) has sparked public uproar by appointing former star player Shao Jiayi—who has almost no high-level coaching experience—as the head coach of the national team.

On the afternoon of November 5th, the Chinese Football Association officially announced Shao Jiayi as the new head coach of the men’s national football team. This decision has stirred considerable debate since the 45-year-old strategist has never led a senior national team, especially amid a crisis of confidence in Chinese football following years of decline.

Born in 1980, Shao Jiayi was one of the most successful Chinese footballers in Europe. He earned 36 caps for the national team, scoring 9 goals, participated in the 2002 World Cup, and helped China secure the runner-up position at the 2004 Asian Cup. During nearly a decade playing in Germany, he made a lasting impact with TSV 1860 Munich, Energie Cottbus, and MSV Duisburg, even being honored in the Bundesliga’s “Hall of Fame” for outstanding Asian players.

However, as a coach, Shao Jiayi has yet to make a significant mark. He previously served as an assistant at Beijing Guoan and coached China’s U19 and U23 teams before being appointed head coach of Qingdao West Coast in July 2024. Under his leadership, the newly promoted club surprisingly avoided relegation and currently ranks 9th in the Chinese Super League, a commendable achievement for a young coach.

Despite this progress, the CFA’s decision has divided fans. Most opinions on Chinese social media express doubts about Shao Jiayi’s capability, arguing that the national team needs an experienced coach from Europe or South America for a comprehensive overhaul. A common comment on Weibo stated: “Chinese football needs someone who can teach us how to win, not just an icon to praise.”

Meanwhile, the CFA defends its choice. According to their statement, the decision followed a rigorous selection process involving experts both domestic and abroad.

“We considered overall experience, coaching philosophy, leadership skills, and compatibility with the current state of Chinese football before making the final decision,” the announcement clarified. Shao Jiayi’s goal is to help build a solid foundation for the Chinese team aiming toward the 2030 World Cup.

Speaking after his appointment, the new head coach said: “For any coach in China, leading the national team is the greatest dream. I fully understand the responsibility and pressure, but I will do my utmost to restore the fans’ trust.”

Shao Jiayi succeeds Branko Ivankovic, who was dismissed in June after the Chinese team failed to advance past the third round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. This marks the first time since 2016 that China’s national team has appointed a local coach—a risky choice but one that reflects a desire to find a more authentic path for Chinese football.

Now, Shao Jiayi faces a major challenge: to revive a team losing its status and fan confidence, while proving that Chinese football can confidently rely on its own people.

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