The long-awaited news in Chinese football has finally arrived, and Antonio, a foreign coach who is loved by fans, is expected to return to China to take over the upcoming reorganization of the 2003 national U21 team. The news has attracted a lot of attention and positive reactions among fans and the media. According to the "Football Daily", the Chinese Football Association has basically determined that the coaches of the national teams at all levels in the next stage are foreign coaches, and Antonio is the favorite candidate for the coach of the national team in the 2003 age group.
Antonio's previous coaching record in China is quite impressive, especially at junior national team level. He successfully led the 2004 national junior team to the 2019 U17 Asian Cup finals, which is the first time in many years since the 1998 age group. In addition, he led the 2003 national youth team to the U20 Asian Cup finals in 2022, proving his coaching ability and unique insights into youth development.
Although Antonio failed to get a contract extension in time after the end of his contract, which led to his departure from China for a time, the decision sparked widespread controversy and fan dissatisfaction at the time. Many people believe that letting Antonio go is a big mistake by the Chinese Football Association, because he is not only an excellent tactician, but also respected for his deep understanding of Chinese football culture and his emphasis on youth training.
Now, with the restructuring of the 2003 national team and the upcoming challenges of the tournament, the Chinese Football Association has restarted its contact with Antonio. It is understood that Antonio is open to coaching the Chinese national team again, and his return is seen as a positive step taken by the Chinese Football Association in youth training and national team construction. This may not only repair his relationship with the Football Association, but also bring hope to Chinese football.
Fans and media are widely expecting Antonio's return to breathe new life into Chinese football. His coaching style and approach to developing young players are considered to be a perfect fit for the development needs of Chinese football. In the next few years, the youth training system of Chinese football and the performance of the national team may be rejuvenated by the return of Antonio. For the majority of fans, Antonio's return is a long-awaited piece of good news, symbolizing the possibility of Chinese football moving to a higher level. (Lao Qiu Super League Ball Review)