Shanghai Shenhua's tumultuous season under Leonid Slutsky
Leonid Slutsky's tenure as manager of Shanghai Shenhua has been a rollercoaster ride, marked by both highs and lows.
The Russian coach arrived in Shanghai with a reputation as one of the most promising young managers in Europe, having led CSKA Moscow to three Russian Premier League titles and the Champions League quarter-finals.
However, his time in China has been far from smooth sailing. Shanghai Shenhua have struggled for consistency, and Slutsky has come under fire from fans and media alike.
Despite the challenges, Slutsky has shown glimpses of his quality.
Under his leadership, Shanghai Shenhua have produced some impressive performances, including a 4-0 win over Guangzhou Evergrande in the Chinese Super League.
Slutsky has also been praised for his work with young players, and he has given several academy graduates their chance to shine in the first team.
However, Shanghai Shenhua's season has been overshadowed by off-field problems.
The club has been hit by a series of injuries, and they have also been deducted points for fielding an ineligible player.
As a result, Shanghai Shenhua are now languishing in mid-table, and their hopes of qualifying for the AFC Champions League are all but over.
Despite the setbacks, Slutsky remains confident that he can turn things around at Shanghai Shenhua.
The Russian coach has vowed to continue fighting until the end of the season, and he believes that the club can still achieve success.
Only time will tell whether Slutsky can deliver on his promises, but one thing is for sure: his tenure at Shanghai Shenhua has been anything but dull.
Here is a timeline of some of the key events during Slutsky's time at Shanghai Shenhua:
- June 2017: Slutsky is appointed as manager of Shanghai Shenhua.
- July 2017: Shanghai Shenhua make a strong start to the season, winning four of their first five games.
- August 2017: Shanghai Shenhua suffer a dip in form, losing three of their next four games.
- September 2017: Shanghai Shenhua are deducted six points for fielding an ineligible player.
- October 2017: Shanghai Shenhua are eliminated from the AFC Champions League at the group stage.
- November 2017: Shanghai Shenhua finish the season in mid-table.
- December 2017: Slutsky is sacked as manager of Shanghai Shenhua.
