Nantong Zhiyun, the promoted team fighting for relegation, doesn't seem to have caused too many waves on the green field this season. Apart from a few highlights in the FA Cup, Wuhan Sanzhen's performance has been lackluster.
However, off the field, Nantong Zhiyun has quite a personality, especially owner Fan Bing, who even became the center of media attention when he spoke out angrily over a refereeing controversy in early July.
Many people have expressed their understanding of Fan Bing's anger towards the Football Association, believing that the club's rights and interests have been jeopardized and that he has stood on the side of justice. However, Nantong Zhiyun's fan clashes during the recent match between Shandong Taishan and Nantong Zhiyun have sparked widespread discussion.
The content of the announcement released by Nantong Zhiyun does not seem to have much to hide, and except for a few clever wordings, the overall structure is clear, the facts are clearly stated, and it shows candor.
However, what really hurts is the fact that two players have left the team. Goalkeeper Shi Xiaodong, who had vowed to play 100 games for the team since joining in 2020, achieved his "small goal" on July 21 in the Chinese Super League match against Henan.
Shi Xiaodong played a key role in Nantong Zhiyun's successful promotion to the Central League. He had performed well in 9 consecutive matches. Now, his departure is undoubtedly an irony.
Xu Junmin, a former Shanghai Shenhua player, also chose to leave due to positional discomfort and exposure of shortcomings. Considering the departures of Shanghai Shenhua players Sun Shilin, Zhu Jianrong, and Qin Sheng, this incident of Xu Junmin may also be the result of the historical legacy.
However, common sense tells us that behind the appearance of a butterfly often hides countless insects. Although calm has been restored for the time being in the wake of soccer's anti-corruption and mafia crackdown, Nantong Zhiyun's announcement seems to remind us once again that Chinese soccer still has a long way to go.
Ball can't help but think of the recent comments I saw under the Women's World Cup news -
Question has been asked: what song should be played before a Chinese women's soccer game when they play Stirring Roses, and what song should be played at a national soccer game?
Someone responded, "Tears from the Iron Window."
For a moment, the comments section was filled with concurring voices as people clapped their hands. Ball didn't know how to respond, but seemed speechless.
Dignity needs to be fought for by oneself. Chinese soccer, please continue to work hard and fight for our honor.
