Sources revealed that in the face of Ivankovic's firm position, the CFA is weighing the pros and cons of the situation, facing a delicate game between diplomacy and the local coaching team. On the one hand, they are eager to help the foreign coach to help the Chinese national soccer team to successfully enter the final round of the 2026 U.S.-Canada-Mexico World Cup; on the other hand, the local coaching team, especially Zheng Zhi as the leader of the Chinese coaching team, in the national team's influence can not be underestimated, if not handled correctly, the team's internal friction is inevitable. How to balance the relationship between Chinese and foreign coaches has become a thorny issue that the FA must deal with carefully.
However, the contradiction between Ivankovic and the Chinese coaching staff of the national football team is not all unresolved. In order to maximize the interests of the national team, both sides should seek consensus through communication and negotiation. In order to cater to the needs of Ivankovic, the FA may need to adjust or re-plan the coaching team. At the same time, Ivankovic should also respect the members of the Chinese coaching team and collaborate positively to help the national team get out of the dilemma.
If this news is true, the internal structure of the national team will face major changes. This also forces the CFA to reflect deeply on the management model of Chinese soccer.
The dispute between Ivankovic and the Chinese coaching team reflects a typical challenge in the development of Chinese soccer. At the moment, what the national team needs is not accusations and complaints, but mutual understanding, effective communication and close cooperation. Only in this way can the FA and Ivankovic work together to help Chinese soccer get back on track, strive to get good results in the world qualifiers, and strive to return to the World Cup final round.
