As the 2026 Chinese Super League season approaches, the football landscape is marked by crackdowns and confusion. Thirteen clubs have been punished for improper transactions, with Chengdu Rongcheng the only top-six side from last season starting on zero points. Shanghai Shenhua begin on minus 10, while champions Shanghai Port were deducted five points. The punishments, announced by the ministry of public security, the general administration of sport and the Chinese FA, are part of a 'zero tolerance' campaign following the lifetime ban of former national team manager Li Tie, who is currently serving a 20-year prison sentence for bribery.
Despite the turmoil, there are positive signs. China's under-23 team reached the Asian Cup final for the first time in January, before losing 4-0 to Japan. Players like Wang Yudong, Hu Hetao, Liu Haofan and Xu Bin (who has since joined Wolves) impressed, highlighting the benefits of youth development investments. 'Our experience in the Chinese Super League and other domestic competitions has been crucial,' said defender Li Hao, whose solid performances earned him the nickname 'the Great Wall of China'.
At grassroots level, the Jiangsu City Football League has flourished. After the collapse of Jiangsu FC in 2021, amateur teams from 13 cities formed the league last year. Initially played at college venues, matches quickly moved to big stadiums as fan support grew. The league offers a new chapter for football in the province, with well-humoured battles for local pride.
