The first rays of sunlight in 2025 illuminate the Haikou training base, where Beijing Guoan's preparations for the new season have fully commenced. At this hopeful start of the year, the team not only welcomes new faces but also undergoes a significant squad reshuffle!
The most eye-catching addition is the 24-year-old national team central defender, Wu Shaocong. This talent from Beijing Baxy's youth training system has experienced the training of the J-League's Shimizu Pulse U19 team in Japan and subsequently played for Guangzhou Evergrande, where he was frequently selected for the national team, demonstrating remarkable abilities. Although his development in the Turkish Super League was not smooth, his decision to return to the CSL and join Beijing Guoan undoubtedly injects new vitality into the team.
New head coach Setien shows great enthusiasm for Wu Shaocong's arrival. The Spanish coach values Wu Shaocong's excellent physical condition, technical characteristics, and tactical understanding, believing he perfectly fits the team's tactical system requirements. Although Wu Shaocong was scheduled to report to the national team on January 9th, he arrived early in Haikou to participate in team training, earning the admiration of the coaching staff with his professional attitude.
However, signing Wu Shaocong requires a substantial transfer fee, leading the team to make some tough decisions. According to reports from the Beijing Youth Daily journalist, Guoan will transfer young players Ruan Qilong, Ma Yujun, and He Xiaoqiang to Chongqing Tongliang Long in the China League One, while retaining buy-back clauses. Meanwhile, former AFC Champions League captain Liang Shaowen and Yan Yu will join Shaanxi Chang'an Athletic.
These transfer decisions have sparked fans' reluctance and discussions. After all, these departing young players are excellent representatives of Guoan's youth training system. However, considering the team currently has eight national team players and plans to continue recruiting for the new season, these young players indeed find it challenging to secure playing opportunities in the first team. Transferring to lower-level leagues to seek more practical experience may be a better choice for their career development.
It is worth noting that 19-year-old central defender Fan Shuangjie will continue to stay in the first team. This youngster has already gained Setien's favor and is expected to get playing time in the CSL in the new season. This also demonstrates the club's non-one-size-fits-all approach to its youth training policy, making reasonable arrangements based on the actual situation of each player.
It is reported that Guoan's recruitment work is not yet complete, and the club plans to further strengthen the positions of central defender, fullback, and defensive midfielder. This indicates that the team is building a more complete and competitive lineup system.
As a fan who has long followed the CSL, I believe that Guoan's personnel adjustments carry multiple meanings: First, it reflects the wisdom of the club in seeking balance between competitiveness and sustainable development. While enhancing immediate combat capabilities by introducing strong new recruits, it also creates growth space for young players through transfers and loans.
Second, the practice of retaining buy-back clauses demonstrates the club's forward-thinking approach. This can alleviate current financial pressures while leaving room for future talent reserves. Finally, the entire adjustment process reflects the club's professional operational philosophy. Whether it's the selection of new recruits or the arrangement of youth training players, clear planning and scientific decision-making are evident.
Looking forward to the new season, I expect this reformed Beijing Guoan to achieve remarkable results under Setien's leadership and hope that the young players who temporarily leave the team can develop better in new environments. After all, an excellent professional football club should not only focus on current achievements but also cultivate talents for the future of Chinese football. This is precisely what makes Beijing Guoan's current adjustments commendable!