When exploring the naturalization issue in the soccer world, the question often focuses on the topic of naturalized players. Li Xiaopeng, a coach who has sparked many controversies, has also been in the spotlight for his use of naturalized players. Under the strong demand of the fans, Li Xiaopeng was determined to reuse naturalized players. Back in 2022, on the first night of the New Year, the Chinese national team lost 1-3 to Vietnam away from home in the Qatar World Qualification Asia 12 group stage, a result that became a shameful chapter in the history of Chinese soccer.
Li Xiaopeng's replacement of Li Tie was controversial in its own right, and Li Tie's use of naturalized players during his tenure was a point of contention. After his succession, Li Xiaopeng continued this strategy and for the first time, he sent all naturalized players to start in a crucial match against Vietnam. Imagine if Fernando hadn't returned to Brazil when Li Xiaopeng called him up, he would have been a starter in this match against Vietnam as well.
Under the leadership of Li Xiaopeng, the Chinese men's soccer team has been disappointing. After missing out on the Qatar World Cup, Li Xiaopeng also ended his position as the head coach of the Chinese men's soccer team. After his departure, he stayed away from the soccer world for two years. Now, two years have passed and Li Xiaopeng is back in the game and has found a new start. According to the official disclosure of the Chinese Super League team Cangzhou Lions, after the friendly negotiation between the two sides, Li Xiaopeng will serve as the general manager of Cangzhou Lions Football Club from now on. "In 2015, Li Xiaopeng served as our club's general manager, and we worked hand in hand during that time, leaving unforgettable memories." Nine years later, we witnessed his return once again.
