Marcello Lippi, the renowned Italian coach of Guangzhou Evergrande Football Club, has confirmed his likely departure when his contract ends this year, club president Liu Yongzhuo said at a new signings meeting on Monday, the official website of Xinhua News Agency, xinhuanet.com reported.

Asked about Lippi's future in Guangzhou, Liu expressed his respect and regret at failing to persuade Lippi to remain club manager next year. Lippi's tiredness was one of the major reasons for him leaving, Liu said.

Guangzhou Evergrande won the Asian Football Confederation Club of the Year award in November 2013.

Guangzhou Evergrande was the first Chinese team since 1990 to win the AFC Champions League.