On June 28, 2021, reporter Niu Zhiming broke the news that it was highly likely that an AFC Cup tournament would be held during the national football team's campaign for the Round of 12 from September to November.
Previously, the league schedule was forced to be shortened due to various factors, and at one point there were rumors that this year's FA Cup might be canceled. However, according to the latest media reports, the Chinese Super League is expected to play 22 rounds of matches this season, with all of September through November devoted to the national soccer team's Round of 12 tournament.
Niu Zhiming analyzed that in this context, the resumption of the FA Cup is imperative. If the FA Cup can be carried out normally this season, it is completely feasible to hold the tournament from September to November. Although international players such as Taishan, Guoan and Guangzhou will not be able to participate at that time, it is not an unacceptable solution. The FA can give a tilt in the foreign aid policy, such as increasing the number of foreign aid quota, which may be a feasible strategy. September to November to hold the AFC Cup, not only can the teams to maintain the state of competition, but also make the preparation more targeted.
