After he retired, Xu Hong began managing the newly formed Chinese team Dalian Sidelong in the third tier.

He would not work in management until the 2006 league season with consistent relegation contenders Chongqing Lifan F.C., however despite his best efforts his reign at Chongqing was extremely disappointing and they were relegated at the end of the season, which saw the immediate departure of Xu Hong.

[7] Despite being out of management for two seasons Xu Hong's ties were strong enough for him to be given the assistant post at Dalian Shide F.C.

However Milorad Kosanović left as Head Coach after a very disappointing season which saw them fight against relegation.

[8] The Chinese FA claim that the General manager of Shaanxi Guoli, Wang Po told Xu to manipulate the game, however Xu has gone on to proclaim his innocence by pointing out that his team actually won the game and that he never received a penny from Wang Po who has already received a life-ban from football.