On April 3, in the midst of the off-season, Guangxi Pingguo Ha Rings welcomed Yi Xianlong's new addition to the team, marking the fourth consecutive year of Yi Xianlong's journey in the First Division. Facing the lens of Soccer Daily, Yi Xianlong said bluntly that getting a chance to play is far better for him than staying in the Chinese Super League.
--What was your deepest impression when you first arrived at Guangxi Pingguo Ha Rang?
The club is well organized from management to facilities. I came here with the determination to achieve my goal for the season, and the fans here are very enthusiastic not only in Pingguo City, but also in the whole of Guangxi. I was already impressed by the atmosphere when we played away from home in the past. Nowadays, the spectator stands at the stadiums here are often full, and even the daily training attracts a lot of fans.
-How did you get your foot in the door of soccer?
I was born in Ganzhou, Jiangxi Province and spent my childhood traveling back and forth to Meizhou, Guangdong Province with my parents. I attended Meixian New Town Center Primary School in elementary school, and in fifth grade, a scout from Meizhou People's Primary School discovered my potential. He suggested training to my parents. I was only 11 years old at the time, and with the encouragement of my parents, I decided to embark on the road of professional training.
-- During your years in the First Division, did you value getting a chance to play more or staying in the Premier League?
For me, the opportunity to play is more important. Everyone's choice is different, some teammates choose to stay in the first team and wait for their chance. I, on the other hand, prefer to seek stable playing time. I think the opportunity to stay in Shandong Taishan is limited, so I chose to go out to work out in order to improve myself. Guangxi Pingguoha Rattlers are doing well in this year's First Division and I believe I can make a difference here.
-- In your opinion, what are the core competencies of a professional player?
Yi Xianlong said that on-field statistics and individual characteristics are key to the team's value. Players' ability and potential are the focus of attention of clubs and the transfer market. It is also the reality of the professional league that only those who are strong can gain a foothold after entering the professional arena. Therefore, continuous self-improvement is key.
--What are some of your technical characteristics?
Yi Xianlong believes that his ability to flexibly break through and change direction when facing one-on-one confrontations is his greatest strength. In the AFC Champions League, he fought against strong Asian teams with his excellent physical condition and speed. But back in the domestic game, he realizes that he needs to use his intelligence and play to his strengths.
-What are some of the lessons you've learned growing up over the years in the professional leagues?
Compared with his soccer predecessors, Yi Xianlong feels that he still has a lot of room for improvement. He admired the solid skills of his predecessors. He emphasized that players should set their minds right and make steady progress without rushing.
--What goals have you set for yourself in joining the Guangxi Pingguo Ha Rings this year?
Yi Xianlong hopes to help his team make a breakthrough in the league. He has a lot of experience in overtaking and wants to show himself for a higher platform in the China First Division. Being selected for the national team is his ultimate goal and he will stick to his rhythm despite the long road.
--You have many fans in Shandong, Meizhou, and Pingguo in Guangxi, what would you like to say to them?
Yi Xianlong expressed his gratitude for the fans' support. He promised to do his best to prove himself with his actions and let time prove everything.
