As the summer transfer window draws to a close, the giants have been making changes to their lineups up front. Top teams such as Shandong Taishan, Shanghai Harbor and Wuhan Sanzhen have all strengthened in this area. Shandong Taishan originally intended to bring in three foreigners, but after much deliberation by Choi Kang-hee, they finally chose Brazilian shot-stopper Pato. Meanwhile, one of the foreigners attracted the attention of Shanghai Seaport, bringing immediate strength to the Seaport team. Shandong Taishan are tasked with defending the AFC Cup, which is their path to next season's AFC Champions League. However, the delicate relationship with the referee has made Shandong Taishan's journey to the AFC Cup a thorny one.
Shandong Taishan, despite their strong performance in the Chinese Super League and even winning the championship, do not seem to have been given due favor in the eyes of the Football Association. They often suffer from injustice on the field, and are always victimized once there is a controversy. This season, Shandong Taishan suffered many unfavorable matches, which made them lose their ambition to compete for the Super League title. Now, the F.A.C. Cup title has become their last hope.
The referee's decision criteria has become a key factor affecting the team's performance, and Shandong Taishan has to face this problem head on. The team needs to learn a lesson from the Chinese Super League and restrain their emotions to avoid non-combatant cuts. Jadason received red twice for extreme behavior, which dealt a huge blow to the team's defense. The team should focus more on reducing fouls and winning over the referees with goals as opposed to arguing with them.
As the summer transfer window counts down, Cui Kangxi has finally finalized his preferred foreigners. It was reported that the agent had recommended three foreigners to Shandong Taishan. Considering the tactical needs and financial situation, Cui Kangxi finally chose Pato. Another foreign aid Lucas, 1.93 meters tall, flexible and fast, but slightly insufficient in the header and bounce, and salary higher than Pato.
Although Shandong Taishan did not select Lucas, he has attracted the interest of Shanghai Harbor. Currently, the Harbor Team is discussing contract details with Lucas. Unsurprisingly, he will join the Harbor Team. It can be said that Shandong Taishan indirectly helped Seaports to bring in a center forward. Another aid player, Pires, is not bad, but Choi Kang-hee prefers the high center position and Pires' salary is not expensive. Huang Zhengyu, Li Yuanyi and Liao Lisheng are strong enough at the back domestically, which is one of the reasons why Choi Kang-hee gave up on Pires.
Pato has now departed for China and is expected to arrive at Shandong Taishan before the opening game of the Chinese Super League. Expect Shandong Taishan to complete another Cressan-like deal to take the team's offensive line to the next level.
