Marcello Lippi insists World Cup qualification is not yet out of reach for China as he is unveiled as new coach
The Chinese Football Association want the Italian World Cup winner to introduce an entire football philosophy to the country
China’s new football manager Marcello Lippi met the press in Beijing on Friday, tasked with salvaging the country’s World Cup qualifying campaign – and instilling a new style of football.
The 68-year-old, who won the Chinese Super League three times with Guangzhou Evergrande and the Asian Champions League, has signed a deal until 2019, the CFA confirmed.
Reports claim Lippi and his backroom staff will receive €20 million a year, though Chinese Football Association chief Cai Zhenhua said he couldn’t comment on the size of the contract.
“China is one of the world’s most important countries [and] I believe I can help Chinese football progress,” said Lippi, who won the World Cup as coach of his native Italy.
“I believe the players are all skillful and have no need to feel inferior or envy toward players of other countries, because they can reach the same level,” Lippi told reporters.
“What they need is a sense of responsibility, mission and belief.”