Jim McGuinness steps down as Roger Schmidt's assistant in Beijing

Shamrock Rovers could face Beijing Sinobo Guoan in the Atlantic Cup next month but one man who won't be there is Jim McGuinness after he parted company with the Chinese club.

The 2012 All-Ireland winning manager signed a two-and-a-half year deal with Beijing little over six months ago but has opted to cut short his time in China for 'personal reasons.'

McGuinness has been assistant to Roger Schmidt, the former Borussia Dortmund manager, since leaving his post with the Celtic academy in Glasgow.

And the Donegal man has set his sights on another post in European football following what he describes as 'an amazing experience working under a top European coach.'

"The respect and hospitality that I have received since I arrived in Beijing has been fantastic,” McGuinness wrote in a message to fans.

“Every day working at the club has been thoroughly enjoyable. I would also like to thank manager Roger Schmidt for giving me the opportunity to be part of his management team.

"It has been an amazing experience working under a top European coach and I have learned so much from him.

"I feel my experience in Beijing has set me up for the next stage of my coaching development and I look forward to a new chapter in Europe."

Beijing, who boast Brazil internationals Renato Augusto and Ralf as their marquee players, finished eight in the 16-team league during McGuinness's sole half-season at the club.