Since stepping on the threshold of 2023, the trajectory of Chinese soccer has become clearer, especially at the national team level, with the FA Cup unveiling a brand new Olympic and Asian Games squad. Among them, the Asian Games roster is particularly crucial, given that the tournament was delayed by one year and the age limit for participation is U24, i.e. players born in 1999 and later. The Asian Games have been the jewel of our soccer this year, with Jankovic remaining at the helm and the team having shown glimpses of their East Asian Cup journey earlier in the year.
Only players of age are announced in the list, but the Asian Games allows three overage players to participate, and the selection will depend on the team's needs. Dai Weijun is at the top of the list, and as a true international player, he would undoubtedly be a mainstay in the midfield if he were to play for the Asian Games. Although injuries plagued his play last season, Dai Weijun's choice during the Asian Games may be up in the air if he goes abroad for further study, which has to be taken into consideration in advance.
Most of the players on the roster are from the Chinese Super League, with Shanghai Shenhua becoming part of the family. Jiang Shenglong, Zhu Chenjie, Liu Ruofan, Wang Haijian and Sun Qinhan are all Shenhua players, while Peng Peng and Xu Yue are from the Shanghai Shenhua youth training. Zhu Chenjie, also an international, will unsurprisingly be named captain, while Jiang Shenglong, Liu Ruofan and Wang Haijian, a mainstay in the Chinese Super League, will play key roles in Jankovic's tactical system. In addition, three of Yankovic's favorites will also be included in the list.
Dalian players Huang Jiahui, He Yupeng and Wang Xianjun have been selected for the squad, three players who have been close to Jankovic's heart since the U20 national team. Huang Jiahui has excelled in his starting role for Dalian, playing in both the midfield and center back positions and making particularly good runs. He Yupeng is a strong contender for the starting right back role. Xu Haofeng lost the East Asian Cup and Guo Tianyu was not included in the roster, but last season's poor performance does not mean that he will not be involved in the Asian Games.
If Guo Tianyu finds his form in the upcoming season, he will be the first choice for the center forward position. He will play for senior Fang Hao in the East Asian Cup, and last year's favorite young center forward was none other than Hebei's Zhang Wei, who scored seven goals. Zhang Wei and Fang Hao will form a taller and faster forward duo, and will be Yankovic's right-hand men on the offensive end. Liu Ruofan and Tao Qianglong will also provide strong additions to the team. The preparation time for the Asian Games runs from Feb. 4 to Feb. 14, just 10 days. This is just a preliminary roster.
The new Super League season will kick off in April and the roster will be adjusted according to changes in player status. This Asian Games team carries multiple meanings, in addition to participating in the Asian Games, it is also a core member of the national soccer team for the 2026 World Cup. Numerous post-99 players have shown great potential and are competitive at the Asian Games. Playing in their hometown, the team should set a higher target, and getting out of the group is the basic requirement, and winning a medal would be the icing on the cake. Yankovic's connection with the Chinese national team also highlights the recognition of his coaching ability.
