Chen Xiaochun

654789759@qq.com

LEGENDARY soccer coach Bora Milutinović highlighted the need for young players to gain experience through competitive matches, both domestically and internationally, during an interview with Shenzhen Daily yesterday.

“China is a huge country, so players need to travel and compete. If they can go abroad, they will be better positioned to compete with other countries and achieve better results,” he said.

Milutinović — a revered figure in Chinese soccer for leading the Chinese national team to its first and only World Cup appearance in 2002 — is in Shenzhen for the first time, serving as an advisor for Qatar during the ongoing AFC U20 Asian Cup.

Impressed by Shenzhen, Milutinović described the city as “extraordinary” and “modern.” He also noted the happiness of the people he encountered on the streets. “It’s something you don’t see elsewhere in the world,” he remarked.

Milutinović attended the game between China and Qatar last week. He praised Shenzhen’s sports facilities, emphasizing the importance of having modern stadiums where young players can learn and grow.

When asked about China’s present U20 national team and how it compares to the squad he led in 2002, Milutinović cautioned against making direct comparisons. “There’s a 20-year difference between these two periods,” he said. After recalling the success of the 2002 team, he said, “There is potential in China, but people must work hard — that’s what’s important.”

Milutinović stated that confidence is key for China’s qualification for the 2026 World Cup. “One must have confidence that they can qualify. They must dream of making it to the World Cup and know what to do at every moment,” he said.

Milutinović also highlighted the role of fans in supporting the national team, which he said was instrumental during his tenure.

Talking about potential reforms for China’s youth soccer system, Milutinović emphasized the importance of having a clear vision and working hard to achieve it.

He hopes that Chinese soccer will find the right path to success and bring joy to the people.