Soccer changes: challenges and opportunities for new manager Antonio
Antonio's insights are actually quite insightful, however, to commit to long-term intensive training, all aspects need to be harmonized and balanced, especially in the Chinese Super League, which is fundamentally different from the development path of young U21 players.
Nonetheless, the decision to replace the coach is imminent and it is only right that the FA puts the good of the whole picture first and fully supports Antonio's tactical vision.
With this, the question of whether Ivan will stay or go is almost settled. This is certainly welcome news for the national team and the fans, especially when the national team is in the doldrums, and a change of manager might stop the losing streak.
Another thing to be thankful for is the latest developments in the standings.
At the moment, the primary objective of the national team is to qualify for the top four play-offs. Looking at the latest standings, we are not without a chance of winning the group stage, despite two consecutive defeats and a clean sheet. We are only two points adrift of fourth-placed Indonesia - in other words, one win could turn the tide.
In addition, we have managed to beat two of the strongest teams in the group, Japan and Saudi Arabia, in the first two rounds of the tournament, so we are confident of scoring goals in our upcoming matches against Australia and Indonesia.
Of course, the "good news" in terms of points is still based on the expectation of a coaching change. Changing coaches is like changing swords, and only if the new coach takes over quickly can we help the national team get out of the woods quickly. In Ivan's time, this goal seems to be difficult to achieve.
In any case, Antonio's appointment is a big plus for the national team. FA leader Song Kai will also be able to breathe a sigh of relief for the time being from the constant pressure of public opinion.
Can the arrival of a new coach turn things around for the national team? It's a topic worth waiting for.
