Lippi rules out China coach position

Marcello Lippi reiterated that he will not consider any offer from the Chinese Football Association before his contract with Guangzhou Evergrande ends.

The 65-year-old Italian, whose contract with the Guangzhou-based club ends at the end of next year, made the remarks before a Chinese Super League game against Wuhan Zall on Monday.

"I have talked about it many times. But you guys don't believe me. Now I want to say it again that I will not take the job (as China's national team head coach) before my contract with Evergrande ends," Lippi said.

The Chinese Football Association sacked Spanish coach Jose Antonio Camacho following a humiliating 1-5 loss to Thailand on June 15.

"It will be very difficult to take a second coaching position," Lippi said.

"If the Chinese Football Association is still interested in me after my current contract ends next year, I will consider the offer …"

The Italian is a firm favorite among Chinese fans for the position.