The first training session of the Chinese men's national football team in 2025 has attracted significant attention as Ivan Kozlovic called up 32 national players, with the inclusion of naturalized player Hou Yongyong becoming a focal point. Hou's impressive performance in the Norwegian league has made him a strong contender for a new star in the national team, while the absence of Fernandinho due to health reasons has sparked discussions among fans. The question remains whether Ivan's approach to player selection and the integration of naturalized players can bring about a breakthrough for the national team. In this training session without any warm-up matches, the future direction of the national team has become a focus for both fans and media.
The training sessions of the Chinese men's national football team always generate considerable interest, especially when naturalized players take center stage. Hou Yongyong, who shone brightly in the Norwegian league, has finally donned the national team's jersey. With 19 goals in 29 games, one cannot help but wonder if he could be the savior of the national team.
Ivan's strategy of steady change has been consistent, and this training session is no exception. Thirty-two national players have gathered, with only Fernandinho absent due to health issues. There are no friendly matches scheduled, focusing instead on physical recovery, which seems to be preparing for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers. Ivan's plan is clear: are naturalized players the future of the national team or just a short-term quick fix?
Hou Yongyong's selection is undoubtedly the highlight of this training session. As an attacking midfielder, his addition fills a void in the national team's lineup. CCTV Sports News even revealed that he might become the new number 10 for the national team. Imagine a young player who has just emerged in the Norwegian league suddenly becoming the offensive core of the national team—does this plot development sound a bit like the football version of "Cinderella"?
Of course, the introduction of naturalized players is not without controversy. Players like Fernandinho and Alan have gradually faded from the national team, indicating that the adaptation and integration of naturalized players are not easy tasks. Ivan's strategy is to immediately bring suitable candidates back to the national team for evaluation. This approach is undoubtedly aimed at quickly enhancing the team's overall strength, but it may also affect the development space for local players.
In addition to Hou Yongyong, Oscar and Sergi Rio are also considered potential future naturalized players. If all procedures go smoothly, by March when the World Cup qualifiers restart, the lineup of naturalized players in the national team will expand. Ivan will have more cards in hand, and tactical choices will be richer. However, the question remains: can such a "foreign aid" strategy truly help the national team achieve a breakthrough on the international stage?
The number 10 position in the national team has always been the soul of the team. Whether it's Hou Yongyong or other naturalized players, their performance will directly affect the offensive efficiency and tactical execution of the national team. Especially in the upcoming four crucial matches, scoring goals is key to maintaining a top-four position in the group. Besides relying on naturalized players, the national team also needs a major reshuffle in the forward line to ensure sufficient attacking power in matches.
Fans are filled with anticipation for the performance of naturalized players, especially Hou Yongyong's first selection, which has become a focal point of attention. This expectation undoubtedly brings pressure to both the players and the coaching staff, but it also motivates them to give their all on the field. The introduction of naturalized players reflects the trend of internationalization in Chinese football, drawing on international experience and talent to enhance the overall level.
The introduction of naturalized players has brought new hope to the Chinese men's national football team, but it also comes with challenges. Hou Yongyong's first selection and the possibility of becoming the new number 10 for the national team have fans looking forward to the future with excitement. However, the adaptability and ability to integrate into the team of naturalized players will directly impact their performance within the national team. Whether Ivan's player selection strategy and tactical adjustments can quickly enhance the overall strength of the national team remains to be seen over time. The introduction of naturalized players is part of the national team's internationalization, but how to balance the development of local players and the use of naturalized players will be a problem to solve in the future. Regardless, the future direction of the national team will increasingly depend on the performance and integration of naturalized players, and we look forward to them bringing new breakthroughs to Chinese football.