Branko Ivankovic fate a mystery, as China eye South Korea’s Shin for top football job
Reports swirl in mainland media over fate of Branko Ivankovic, as former Indonesia boss Shin Tae-yong throws his hat in the ring
South Korean Shin Tae-yong said he would jump at the chance to manage the Chinese men’s national football team if asked to do so - although there is no official word as to whether the role is even up for grabs.
While multiple reports in mainland China claimed Branko Ivankovic had been sacked after his side’s failure to reach the 2026 World Cup, the country’s football association has not said anything despite that being the expected outcome following a 1-0 defeat to Indonesia this month.
Attention has already turned to Ivankovic’s successor with Shin, who was sacked as Indonesia boss in January, among the names linked with the role.
“If there is a proposal from China, why hesitate?” he said. “If there is an offer, I will go. The Chinese men’s national football team [role] is definitely a very attractive position.
“If they appoint me as the next head coach of the Chinese team, I am confident that I can lead this team well.”
Media reports from Beijing suggested Ivankovic made a final appearance at the Chinese Football Association (CFA) headquarters on Friday to discuss his contract before leaving for a 1.45am flight to Qatar.