China’s Shock Appointment: Why Is Dejan Jurjević Coaching the National Team After a 0-0 Draw with Bangladesh?

Introduction: A Controversial Appointment Shakes Chinese Football

Did you know that China’s national football team is heading into the 2025 East Asian Cup with Dejan Jurjević, a coach whose recent record has left fans and pundits in disbelief? After a disappointing 0-0 draw against Bangladesh and failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, the Chinese Football Association (CFA) dismissed Branko Ivanković and, in a surprise move, appointed Jurjević—previously head of the U-20 and U-23 squads—as interim head coach. This decision has ignited fierce debate across Chinese media, online communities, and among international observers.

Jurjević’s appointment comes at a time when Chinese football is under intense scrutiny, with fans demanding accountability and a clear vision for the future. The upcoming East Asian Cup in Korea is seen as a critical test not just for the team, but for the CFA’s leadership and its commitment to meaningful change.

Jurjević’s Track Record: From Youth Teams to the National Spotlight

Jurjević, a Serbian coach, made his mark in China by guiding the U-23 team to the quarterfinals of the 2023 Hangzhou Asian Games and leading the U-20 squad to the last eight in the 2025 AFC U-20 Asian Cup. However, these achievements are overshadowed by the team’s inability to qualify for the U-20 World Cup and uninspiring performances, such as the infamous 0-0 draw with Bangladesh. Critics argue that his tactical approach is unclear, with Chinese football journalist Yuan Jia publicly questioning whether Jurjević has the qualifications or vision to lead the senior team.

Supporters of the CFA’s decision point to Jurjević’s familiarity with the next generation of Chinese talent and his experience navigating the unique challenges of Chinese football. Still, the lack of a clear tactical identity and consistent success at the youth level has left many unconvinced.

Inside the Chinese Football Association’s Decision

The CFA’s choice of Jurjević was not made in a vacuum. After Ivanković’s dismissal, several high-profile candidates were considered, including Korean coaches Shin Tae-yong and Seo Jung-won, as well as former Saudi Arabia manager Mancini. However, nationalist sentiments and concerns about foreign influence led to a backlash against the idea of hiring a Korean coach. Ultimately, the CFA opted for continuity and internal knowledge, selecting Jurjević for his experience with Chinese youth teams and his perceived ability to oversee a generational transition.

This decision reflects broader tensions within Chinese football: a desire for rapid improvement, skepticism toward foreign leadership, and the hope that investing in youth will yield long-term results.

Media and Community Reactions: Outrage, Sarcasm, and Hope

Chinese media outlets like Sohu.com and Biz Chosun have extensively covered the controversy, highlighting both the outrage and cautious optimism surrounding Jurjević’s appointment. Prominent commentators, including Yuan Jia, have lambasted the CFA, calling the decision a ‘joke’ and questioning Jurjević’s credentials. On platforms like Naver, Daum, DCInside, FM Korea, and PGR21, reactions have been mixed:

Positive comments (about 30%): Some fans see Jurjević’s youth experience as a chance for fresh blood and a new start.
Negative comments (about 70%): Many are skeptical, referencing the Bangladesh draw and lack of tactical clarity. Representative comment: “Are we seriously putting our hopes in a coach who couldn’t beat Bangladesh?”

Internationally, the decision is viewed with curiosity, as fans wonder whether China’s football leadership can break out of its cycle of disappointment.

Cultural Context: Why Coaching Choices Matter in China

To understand the uproar, overseas fans need to appreciate the cultural and political backdrop of Chinese football. The national team is a symbol of pride, and coaching appointments are often seen as reflections of national policy and identity. The debate over hiring foreign coaches—especially Koreans—reveals deep-seated anxieties about losing face and the desire for homegrown success. Jurjević, while technically a foreigner, is seen as an insider due to his years in the Chinese system.

Moreover, the East Asian Cup itself is more than just a football tournament; it’s a regional rivalry where matches against Korea and Japan carry extra weight. For many Chinese fans, the idea of entering this competition with a ‘caretaker’ coach who lacks a winning pedigree is almost unthinkable.

What’s Next: Can Jurjević Prove the Doubters Wrong?

Jurjević’s first test will be against Korea on July 7 at Yongin Mir Stadium, followed by matches with Japan and Hong Kong. With little time to implement changes, expectations are low, but the tournament is also seen as an opportunity for young players like Zhang Chenglong, Zhu Chuanjie, and Liu Chengyu to step up.

Chinese media is split: some hope for a ‘renaissance’ under Jurjević, while others predict more disappointment. The CFA’s gamble on continuity and youth will be scrutinized as never before, with the outcome likely to influence the direction of Chinese football for years to come.

As the East Asian Cup approaches, all eyes are on Jurjević. Will he silence his critics, or will the outcry grow louder? One thing is certain: in Chinese football, nothing is ever just about the game.