In the pulsating heart of Shanghai, a notable figure in Chinese soccer, Xu Genbao, has once again made headlines. This time, however, it wasn’t for another coaching accomplishment or milestone but for his heartfelt call to his proteges. After Shanghai Port clinched the title of the Chinese Super League (CSL) champions, Xu urged his former students, now in their prime, to shift their ambitions beyond domestic triumphs and strive to elevate Chinese soccer on the global map.
It was a poignant moment when the “East Asia Six Tigers” – Wu Lei, Yan Junling, Zhang Linpeng, Wang Shenchao, Cai Huikang, and Lü Wenjun – gathered to honor the man who significantly impacted their careers. These players, all alumni of Xu’s acclaimed academy situated on Chongming Island and initially a part of Shanghai East Asia FC, share a bond that runs deep. Their camaraderie was evident when Wu Lei took to social media, joyously proclaiming, “The dream we cherished as teenagers, we did it together!”
The Chongming Island soccer institution, founded by Xu at the dawn of the 2000s, wasn’t just a school; it became a forge where raw talent was molded into world-class soccer prowess. This school’s significance in transforming a generation of players, who are now torchbearers for Chinese soccer both at home and abroad, cannot be overstated.
As celebrations of the recent league win unfolded, Xu, always the visionary, set a new challenge for his former students. “Now that the euphoria of the league championship has settled, it’s time to redefine joy. True elation will be felt when Chinese soccer dominates Asia and makes a mark globally,” he emphasized.
The core group from Shanghai Port, which celebrated league success in 2018, had seen a temporary phase of separation when Zhang ventured to Guangzhou FC due to the latter’s financial constraints. However, age and past journeys haven’t dampened their spirit or commitment. Now in their mid-30s, the players have their sights set on representing China in the upcoming FIFA World Cup Asian qualifiers.
Reflecting on their journey, Mao Jiale, a sports analyst from Chengdu, opined, “Their storied career, enriched with another CSL title, stands as proof of the fruits of long-term investment in youth development. It’s a shining testament to Xu’s two-decade dedication to nurturing young talent on Chongming Island.”
The prodigious Wu Lei, after three seasons abroad, dominated the domestic league with a staggering 16 goals. However, Xu, ever the motivator, whispered bigger dreams into his ear.
In a heartfelt moment, 80-year-old Xu, who still actively coaches Shanghai’s youth, voiced a concern about the future. He expressed his desire to see his students consider coaching, yearning for a worthy successor.
Xu’s track record is unparalleled. The “East Asia Six Tigers” are not mere key players for Shanghai Port but have also been pillars for the Chinese national soccer team. Song Kai, the president of the Chinese Football Association (CFA), has underscored the paramount importance of youth development in elevating Chinese soccer.
Chongming Island, positioned at the Yangtze River’s entrance, has emerged as China’s soccer talent epicenter. It was Xu’s vision that early nurturing was the cornerstone to China’s soccer future. His ethos of unwavering dedication, perseverance, and resilience shines brilliantly through his players.
Mao Jiale summed up the sentiments of many by stating, “Xu’s legacy serves as an inspiration. The aspiration is for more coaches and academies to mirror the philosophy and practices of Xu Genbao, charting a radiant path for Chinese soccer.”
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