While Li Xiaopeng was part of the squad that won the AFC U-17 Championship in 1992 he would have to wait until 3 September 2000 before he made his senior international debut in a friendly against Iraq in 4–1 victory.

[3] This would be impressive enough for him to be included in the squad for 2000 AFC Asian Cup where despite playing a small role within the tournament he nevertheless saw China finish fourth.

He would eventually go on to achieve the necessary coaching certificates required for a management position and he was expected to become an assistant within the Chinese Football Association.

[8] On 8 July 2024, Li was appointed general manager of Chinese Super League club Cangzhou Mighty Lions.

[9] On 18 January 2025, Li returned to fellow Chinese Super League club Qingdao Hainiu (formerly named Qingda Janoon) as their new head coach, whom he had previously managed in 2014.