December 3 – China have replaced former Everton midfielder Li Tie as their national men’s coach after weeks of intense media pressure, with their hopes of reaching the 2022 World Cup all but over.
Li quit amid growing criticism of his team’s performances in their 2022 World Cup qualifying campaign as the country looks to reach the finals for the first time since their debut almost 20 years ago.
He has been succeeded by former Shansong Luneng coach Li Xiaopeng with the country fifth in their qualifying group table with only the top two guaranteed a spot in Qatar.
Li Tie was appointed head coach following the resignation of Marcello Lippi in November 2019 and extended his contract with the CFA until 2026 in August.
However, China have registered only one win – against Vietnam in October – in six group games, while they have drawn with Oman and Australia.
Li Tie also came under fire for using his personal social media account to promote products despite the team’s disappointing results.
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