In addition, it is likely that Ivankovic will break the rules and utilize naturalized players, not limited by numbers, who may be selected for the national team as long as they perform well and meet tactical needs. Of course, some of the naturalized players who have never made an appearance in the Chinese Super League may miss out on the opportunity to be selected for the national team.
Three naturalized players did not appear in the first round of the Chinese Super League. They are Chengdu Rongcheng's Eckerson, Shanghai Shenhua's Dai Weijun and Beijing Guoan's Li Ke. Aixon and Li Ke will most likely not be selected for the national team roster, while for Dai Weijun, it will depend on whether injuries affect them or not.
The national soccer team would have been more consistent against Singapore in March if they had a squad with naturalized players in the front, midfield and back. It has become a consensus to use naturalized players in Asian teams, and while the national team has a number of such players, they are underutilized. The arrival of Ivankovic could break the tradition and put the national team on track to make a solid push for the 2026 World Cup.
