Branko Ivankovic Appointed as China's New Men's Football Coach

Ivankovic replaces Aleksandar Jankovic following China's early exit from the Asian Cup, signaling a new direction for the national team.

Branko Ivankovic has been named the new head coach of China's men's football team, taking over from Aleksandar Jankovic who was dismissed after the team's failure to advance beyond the group stage of the Asian Cup.
The Chinese Football Association announced the coaching change, citing the team's underperformance in the Asian Cup as the reason for Jankovic's contract termination.
Ivankovic brings a wealth of experience, having previously won the Chinese Super League title with Shandong Luneng and coached Iran at the 2006 World Cup finals.
China, currently ranked 88th by FIFA, faces crucial World Cup qualifiers against Singapore on March 21 and 26 as they aim to improve their international standing.
The appointment comes amid a troubled period for Chinese football, marked by a major anti-corruption drive and scandals involving former national team coaches and CFA officials.