Guus Hiddink appointed China PR U-21 coach
His task is to lead the team to the 2020 Olympics
The Dutchman has enjoyed memorable success in Asia previously
Guus Hiddink has been appointed coach of China PR's U-21 national team, the China Football Association (CFA) have confirmed. It is the first time the 71-year-old Dutchman has taken charge of a team in Asia since he led Korea Republic to the last four in the 2002 FIFA World Cup Korea/Japan™.
An article on the CFA's official website, www.fa.org.cn, added: "The team will be prepared for the 2020 AFC U-23 Championship qualification with the aims of sealing a place at the Men's Football Tournament of the 2020 Olympic Games."
The former Russia and Netherlands manager will begin his tenure with a training camp in October. Should China make it to Tokyo 2020 under Hiddink, it will be their first appearance at the event since 2008, when they last qualified as hosts.
The 2020 AFC U-23 Championship qualification kicks off next March. The top 16 teams advancing to the final tournament, the top three finishers at which will represent Asia at the next Men's Olympic Football Tournament.