As night falls and the clock strikes Beijing, the Chinese Super League powerhouse Meizhou Hakka Football Club sent out news that shook the soccer world at dawn on December 25: Serbian head coach Milan Ristic officially announced on social media that he was stepping down from his post, a decision that also declared his farewell to his position as head coach for the upcoming season.
Ristic left a heartfelt message, "Hakkas, fans, three years of time, thankful to have you. You have given me countless, and I respond with loyalty and passion. I wish to be your warrior forever, and you will always be in my heart. We part today, but hope to reunite in the future. Goodbye, Hakka, thank you and love you all forever." In the photo, the 42-year-old young coach pays tribute to the fans, conveying endless gratitude.
Since taking the helm of Meizhou Hakka in February 2021, Ristic has guided the team to 75 points in 34 rounds of the 2021 season, finishing as runners-up behind Wuhan Sanzhen.In the 2022 season, his well-trained "small business" Meizhou Hakka finished ninth in the Chinese Super League (CSL), creating a new chapter in the team's history, and even surpassing Shanghai Shenhua. In the 2023 season, Meizhou Hakka finished 11th in the Chinese Super League, narrowly missing the relegation zone.
After Ristic left the team, his next stop became the center of attention. Previously, it was said that the Serbian coach is expected to join Qingdao West Coast. Regardless of his future destination, with his brilliant achievements in Meizhou, I believe he will not lack the favor of Chinese league clubs.
