Another “Lippi” Moment! Setién’s Heartfelt Farewell: “I’m Falling More in Love with China”

“I’m falling more and more in love with China.” — those words from Quique Setién, spoken before boarding his flight, moved countless fans to tears.

In the early hours of October 8, the former Beijing Guoan head coach departed for Madrid, officially concluding his 300-day coaching journey in China. With emotion in his voice, he said:

“These months have shown me a new country. I’ve grown to love China and its fans deeply. If Guoan wins the championship one day, I’ll celebrate with you — just as if I were still here.”

That heartfelt statement instantly evoked memories of Marcello Lippi, another legendary coach who left a piece of his heart in China.

Before leaving, Setién admitted that departing China filled him with “regret and sadness.” At the airport, he shared a touching moment with his player Zhang Yuan, saying:

“I’ll keep watching your matches when I’m back in Spain — and I’ll send you feedback, the good and the bad.”

The two embraced in tears — a gesture that transcended borders. The 67-year-old veteran left behind not only tactics, but also genuine mentorship and affection — a true “private coach” from afar.

Setién’s words — “I’ll celebrate with you when Guoan wins” — echoed Lippi’s famous 2017 promise:

“If China qualifies for the World Cup in 2030, I’ll celebrate with a walking stick.”

Two world-class managers, two different eras — yet the same affection and respect for Chinese football.

Their paths are remarkably similar: both arrived in China in the twilight of their careers, both devoted themselves wholeheartedly, and both departed before achieving ultimate success.
Setién’s record — 19 wins, 7 draws, 5 losses — fell short of championship expectations, yet he left without bitterness, only gratitude.

“I’ll keep following Guoan, and I’ll keep following Chinese football,” he said sincerely.

From Barcelona to Beijing, Setién’s journey may have been short, but it was filled with warmth and emotion.
As Lippi once said, “I’ll celebrate China’s progress, even on crutches.”
Setién’s farewell carried the same spirit — proof that football’s most beautiful power lies not in winning or losing, but in the love and connection that transcend borders.