Shanghai Shenhua is set to undergo significant changes during the winter break, not only by reinforcing their squad with new signings but also by overhauling their existing roster to optimize it. It is reported that the club is planning a major overhaul, with many underperforming players potentially facing the axe.‌ As anticipated by the media, Shanghai Shenhua recently announced that four key players' contracts have expired and will not be renewed, effectively discarding these four individuals. They are Cao Yunding, Malele, Jin Yangyang, and Xu Yougang. Additionally, a former Evergrande prodigy, Wen Xiaojian, faces an even harsher fate as his contract has been terminated prematurely.‌ Cao Yunding, a veteran player at 35, has seen a decline in physical capabilities and competitive form due to age. After the arrival of Slutsky in the 2024 season, he gradually lost his place, only making seven substitute appearances, failing to meet the team's high-intensity match requirements. Hence, it is reasonable for Shenhua not to renew his contract. Despite scoring 36 goals in 67 matches over two seasons, foreign striker Malele missed a staggering 28 goal-scoring opportunities, lacking the ability to seize chances in front of goal, leading to the club's frustration with him.‌ Jin Yangyang's removal is primarily due to the rise of young talents like Jiang Shenglong and Zhu Chenjie, causing him to lose his starting position and become dispensable. Statistics show that in the 2024 season, he was reduced to a mere decoration, without any Chinese Super League appearances, making it natural for him not to receive a renewal from Shenhua. Xu…