Lopez Stays, Han Peng Set to Depart Next Month – A Double Blow for Taishan Fans

Shandong Taishan have embraced the role of title-race disruptors—whether in the Beijing–Shandong or Shandong–Shanghai showdowns—and interim boss Han Peng has steadied the ship with a solid 5–2 record. Yet while results improved, center-back López hasn’t fully convinced. And, as fate would have it, developments aren’t aligning with supporters’ wishes: according to prominent journalist Yin Bo, López will be retained while Han Peng is expected to depart next month—delivering a double blow to Taishan fans.

Yin Bo reports that López will not be replaced next season and will remain with the squad. He argues the defender fits Taishan’s system, wasn’t overrun by the attacks of Beijing Guoan or Shanghai Shenhua, and could even be groomed as a future captain. As for Han Peng, Yin Bo says he still has upcoming Asian Games duties and won’t exit immediately. He will lead Taishan through the October 26 home match against Shanghai Port before reporting to the U20 National Games setup.

If Han Peng’s pending exit has understandable practical reasons, López’s retention suggests Taishan may be setting more modest targets for next season. López reads the game well and can play out from the back, but questions remain about his physical duels, turning speed, and aerial prowess—traits that limit his dominance as a CSL center-half. His initial arrival was sudden; keeping him now, despite mixed performances, naturally invites speculation among supporters.