The Chinese Super League (CSL) is set to unveil a new chapter in 2025, with an adjusted schedule that begins on February 21 and concludes on November 22. This extended timeframe not only provides ample space for the national team to compete in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers but also heralds unprecedented thrilling matchups in the new season.
The competitive landscape of the CSL is subtly shifting with the addition of two newcomers, Yunnan Yu Kun and Dalian Ying Bo, bringing the total number of strong teams to 16. Particularly noteworthy is Yunnan Yu Kun, a team established just three years ago, which dominated the China League One in the 2024 season with an impressive record of 20 wins, 6 draws, and 4 losses.
Their coach, Joen Andersen, who has previously managed European giants like Borussia Mönchengladbach, may spark a tactical revolution in the CSL with his coaching experience and defensive philosophy. The question of whether "Yu Kun can become the second Chengdu Rongcheng?" has sparked heated discussions among fans. Statistics show that Yu Kun's 70 goals scored and only 20 conceded in the League One demonstrate their strength. Outstanding performances by players such as Mu Xuekui and Han Zilong have showcased the new team's astonishing offensive and defensive capabilities.
Dalian Ying Bo, another promoted team, carries the responsibility of revitalizing Dalian football. Under the guidance of experienced local coach Li Guoxu, the team has steadily completed a three-level jump over three years. Although the team relies on veterans, as one seasoned fan put it, "Dalian football never lacks passion and fighting spirit."
Looking back at the past three seasons, the CSL's landscape has been quietly changing. From Wuhan Three Towns' dark horse championship in 2022 to Shanghai Port's successful defense of their title in 2024, league competition has become increasingly fierce. Notably, the gap between first and fourth place has narrowed from 13 points to 10, then widened to 22 points, reflecting the ebb and flow of overall league strength.
In the 2025 season, the dominance of the Shanghai duo will face severe challenges. Port has lost its golden partnership of Oscar and Bargaz, who contributed 26 goals and 32 assists, which will be difficult to replace in the short term. Shenhua is also facing a rebuilding of their attacking line, with the adaptability of new foreign aid Mineruo to the CSL rhythm still uncertain.
Meanwhile, Beijing Guoan has shown a new image under Setien's coaching, particularly evident in their defensive improvements. Chengdu Rongcheng has displayed a remarkable upward momentum, with their ranking steadily improving from fifth to third over three years, each step solid and stable.
Although Shandong Taishan did not perform as expected in the 2024 season, their deep roots could see them return to the peak at any time. As a senior football commentator said, "The new season of the CSL will be a feast of competition among many heroes, with any team capable of rewriting history."
The overall competitiveness of the league is also evident in the changes in relegation teams' points. In recent three seasons, the relegation threshold has continuously risen, indicating that even lower-ranked teams are making progress. As one fan put it, "There are no longer any truly weak teams in the current CSL."
Looking ahead to the 2025 season, the CSL will present an unprecedented competitive landscape. Port's path to a third consecutive championship is fraught with challenges, while Shenhua's rebuilding project is arduous. The rise of teams like Guoan, Taishan, and Rongcheng heralds an era of more exciting football to come.
In this season full of variables, every team is actively preparing. Recruitment, adjustments, and coordination are all striving towards the same goal. As one team executive said, "The new season of the CSL is not only a contest of strength but also a test of will and wisdom."
This football feast destined to be spectacular will bring new hope to Chinese football. Let us wait and see, witnessing this era of many heroes.