Lippi replaced Gao Hongbo, who resigned earlier this month after China’s slim hopes of qualifying for 2018 FIFA World Cup was dealt a further blow as the East Asians lost 2-0 to Uzbekistan. China have picked up only a point from the last four games in Russia 2018 Asian third qualifying round.

The Italian manager was supposed to replace Luiz Felipe Scolari at Chinese giants Guangzhou Evergrade next season but will instead take over the China national team effective Saturday.

“Following the CFA’s regulations on the national team coach selection process, and after friendly mutual discussions, the Chinese Football Association officially announces that Mr. Marcello Lippi will become the head coach of the China national football team from October 22,” said the CFA statement.

The 68-year-old manager won the 2006 FIFA World Cup with Italy, five Serie A titles, the UEFA Champions League with Juventus and three straight Chinese Super League titles with Guangzhou Evergrande who he also helped win the 2013 AFC Champions League.

Lippi will be presented to the media during a news conference on October 28.