As the 2023 season came to an end, Shandong Taishan returned to glory with a second place finish in the league and a second place harvest in the FA Cup, an achievement that satisfied both the music department and the fans, and even the outside world did not expect.
However, looking back at the beginning of the season, core players such as Jin Jingdao, Hao Wei, Guo Tianyu and Sun Junhao encountered legal problems one after another, and the Taishan team was once in panic. Coupled with assistant coach Fabio's limited ability to command the field, the Taishan team even ranked at the bottom of the league at one time. Despite the team's strength, it is widely believed that it is not easy for Taishan to be relegated this season.
But shockingly, Choi Kang-hee's arrival brought a turnaround for Taishan, not only solidifying the team's position, but also finally realizing the goal of top three in the league. Now, Taishan is approaching the crucial moment of promotion in the group stage of the AFC Champions League. Choi Kang-hee's many coaching experiences in the Chinese Super League have been perfectly confirmed in the Taishan team.
As the Chinese Super League (CSL) enters the interregnum, it is the perfect time for teams to strengthen their lineups. It is reported that some Chinese Super League teams, influenced by the success of Choi Kang-hee's coaching at Taishan, have also begun to consider hiring Korean coaches. According to reporter Li Pingkang, a veteran Chinese Super League team has basically finalized the addition of a Korean coach.
Although Li Pingkang did not reveal exactly which team, in response to a question from a fan, he hinted that the South Korean coach was Cui Longzhu of Jiangsu Suning, rather than the widely known Li Zhangzhu or Zhang Wailong. After all, it is Cui Longzhu who is the old face of these Chinese Super League.
So which will be the next veteran Chinese Super League team that Choi will be coaching? Shanghai Port are currently in desperate need of a coaching change after Javier was sacked for poor results and rumors have been circulating with Australian star Muscat. And according to Japanese media, the former Yokohama Marinos coach's next stop will be Sunderland of England.
Therefore, it is likely that Shanghai Port will hire Choi Yong-ju to replace Javier. After all, Choi knows Asian soccer like the back of his hand, having led Seoul FC to win the K-League title and reach the AFC Champions League final. Although he ultimately missed out on the title, the loss was justified against Guangzhou Evergrande, who were in the ascendancy at the time. Now, Shanghai Port will face the challenge of playing on three fronts next season. If Cui Longzhu becomes the head coach of the team, it is undoubtedly a wise move.
Of course, Henan could also be Choi Yong-ju's next home. After all, Sarko joined Henan team with controversial use of personnel and mediocre results. It cannot be ruled out that Henan, which has successfully reformed its stock, will invite Cui Longzhu to be its head coach. As for Shanghai Shenhua, Beijing Guoan, Changchun Yatai, and even Tianjin Jinmen Tigers, the possibility of changing coaches is almost zero.
