The 71-year-old Croatian was removed from his role as a result of his team’s fifth place finish in Group C, which ended the country’s hopes of a first FIFA World Cup appearance since its debut at the Finals in Korea-Japan in 2002.
“The Chinese Football Association expresses gratitude to Mr. Branko Ivankovic and his coaching staff for their dedicated efforts during their tenure with the men's national team and their contributions to Chinese football,” the CFA said in a statement.
“We wish Mr. Ivankovic all the best in his future work and life.”
The Croatian coach has been linked with a move to Iran’s Persepolis as Ismail Kartal’s replacement.