Chinese media slates Cannavaro
Fabio Cannavaro's first task as China coach may be to win over a sceptical public after his appointment was met with criticism and even anger.
Former players and state media questioned the credentials of the 2006 World Cup winner and world player of the year, who is yet to claim a major trophy as a coach.
The Chinese Football Association has not made it clear if it was a permanent or temporary role for Cannavaro, who will remain in charge of Chinese Super League giants Guangzhou Evergrande.
"In his time as a player, Cannavaro was great, but as a coach, he still has achieved nothing," the Youth Daily commented, saying his appointment had "caused public uproar".
"Cannavaro's achievements as a player are undisputed," former international Li Yan told the newspaper.
"However, his decisions during games and performance as a head coach are not convincing enough."
The 45-year-old Italian's ascension to the post -- with mentor and predecessor Marcello Lippi remaining as an adviser -- was widely predicted in Chinese media.
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