Guangzhou Evergrande have given Coach Fabio Cannavaro some time off so he can attend ‘corporate culture study sessions’.
Even though Evergrande top the Chinese Super League by a point, their hierarchy has decided to relieve Cannavaro of his duties for the time being.
That is so he can enrol on a course in Chinese corporate culture, before resuming work at a later date.
In the meantime, club captain Zheng Zhi will act as the World Cup winner’s replacement.
The 46-year-old returned to take charge of Evergrande in 2017, succeeding fellow Italian icon Marcello Lippi.
He is two seasons into a five-year contract, worth €12m per annum, with the Chinese side.
Cannavaro has yet to publicly comment on the situation, nor is there any suggestion that he will be sacked.
Watch Serie A live in the UK on Premier Sports for just £11.99 per month including live LaLiga, Eredivisie, Scottish Cup Football and more. Visit: https://subscribe.premiersports.tv/