Real Madrid legend Bernd Schuster signs up at Chinese Super League side Dalian Yifang
Former Bernabeu boss takes control of top flight new boys after Ma Lin becomes the first to fall off the managerial merry-go-round in China
Struggling Chinese Super League side Dalian Yifang have confirmed they have sacked manager Ma Lin to bring in former German international Bernd Schuster.
The German had an illustrious playing career with Barcelona, Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid – winning 12 trophies – before going into management, most notably with Real where he won the Primera Liga title in 2008.
The 58-year-old arrives in northeastern China after four years out of the game since leaving Malaga in 2014.
Schuster spent most of his career in Spain but finished his playing days in Mexico with UNAM Pumas before going into management with Fortuna Koln.
His résumé includes stints at Shakhtar Donetsk in Ukraine and Turkish side Besiktas, as well as several roles in the Spanish top flight.
Questions will be asked whether a manager who has had an extended period out of the game is the correct choice for the Chinese club but Schuster’s record as a coach speaks for itself – and as a player who finished runner-up for the Ballon d’Or in 1980 he will command respect from his new charges. He’s also well-travelled so should be able to adapt to life in China.