German Ernst Middendorp flew out to China Monday to take up a post as coach of league champions Changchun Yatai, dpa reported.
Middendorp, who was sacked by Bundesliga club Arminia Bielefeld seven months ago, has signed a short-term contract with Changchun until the end of the 2008 season with the option of a one-year extension.
The current season began in March and Middendorp will take his first training session on Tuesday.