As we all know, the ban on relocation and transfer of shares in China's professional soccer league is less controversial than the neutral name policy. However, at a time when some clubs are struggling, the ban on relocation and transfer of shares, which has been in place for seven years, is facing the possibility of being lifted completely. A new Chinese Super League (CSL) player may be the biggest beneficiary of this change!
On December 12, the Chinese professional football world issued a notice to the clubs of the three levels of the Chinese Super League, the first level and the second level about soliciting opinions on the policies related to the professional league for the 2024 season. The issue of team titles has traditionally been controversial, and the transfer of different locations has also become a focal point, even triggering opposition from fans. In fact, there are not many teams that are eager to change their place of registration in order to carry out equity transfers, among which, next season's Chinese Super League promoted horse Sichuan Jiuniu has the strongest will.
The holders behind Sichuan Jiuniu Football Club are the International City Group, which owns Manchester City, and Chinese Culture is one of the group's shareholders. Many may remember the frequent relocations of Beijing Renhe, which sparked strong discontent among fans. Such vagabond teams often struggle to establish a sense of urban identity, lack a stable fan base and are seen as a means of capturing the city's interests.
On December 14, 2023, Shenzhen City Football Club Co., Ltd. was formally registered and its legal representative is the same as that of Sichuan Jiuniu Football Club. This means that even if Sichuan Jiuniu cannot be the biggest beneficiary after the liberalization of exotic transfers, the International City Football Group has prepared for the development of professional football in China with both hands.
Seven years ago, the relocation of clubs to other cities caused widespread controversy, and the football world introduced relevant regulations as a result, which seems to have allowed at least some teams to become more localized and have a more stable fan base. What would happen if most clubs wanted to relocate to better cities, leaving behind their original fan bases?
Considering the operational difficulties of Chinese professional clubs in recent years, the liberalization or otherwise of off-site relocation has long been a topic of discussion, but the decision on this provision has been delayed to this day due to the chaos of Chen Xuyuan, Du Zhaocai and others.
Wouldn't it be a slap in the face if the FA really went back on its word and decided to liberalize off-site relocation and lift the seven-year-long restriction?
