Recently, Li Yi, the head coach of Sichuan Jiuiu team, was interviewed on the official website of AFC Cup. In the interview, he shared his thoughts and feelings when facing public opinion, emphasizing that only by withstanding the grind of jokes can he show his value; at the same time, Li Yi also said that although his income from being a netizen far exceeds that of a coach, he feels empty inside, and that only on the green field can he feel the immense passion.
Talking about how to deal with ridicule and criticism on the Internet, Li Yi said: "First of all, you have to have a strong heart, otherwise you may not be able to cross this public opinion hurdle. When I was young, I could never figure out why other people's mistakes on the field were nothing, while one of my mistakes, especially in the national team, could be magnified countless times. I was torn up about it at the time. But there are some things that you have to bear on your own, and after walking that road on your own, you'll understand that it's all about growing up, and only by going through it can you develop a strong heart."
Regarding his status as a netizen, Li Yi confessed, "I think it's quite normal, at least this way people can still remember me. If everyone starts making fun of me, maybe I won't have much of an existence as a person. So, I also thank the fans over the years. To be honest, the income from doing live broadcasts and online celebrities far exceeds that of coaching, but I feel like those things leave me empty inside, and once I step onto the green field, I'm incredibly excited. I think that's what I really want, so I decided to be a coach, hoping to bring a touch of warmth to the cold Chinese soccer."
When asked why he dresses so formally for every game, Li Yi replied humorously, "Mainly because it's cold and you'll freeze if you don't wear a coat. Furthermore, your image as captain, representing the club, treats the players the same way, telling them you are ready."
