Oscar's presence in the Chinese Super League is as dramatic as that of a "mysterious golden man", and in the 2023 season, a key statistic revealed Oscar's unique position. It was revealed that Oscar took part in 205 shots on goal in the Chinese Super League that season, a figure that was far higher than any other player by at least 35 shots.
Taking a closer look at the stat sheet, Wu Lei follows in second place with 170 shots on offense, showing that Shanghai Port's offense relies heavily on the combination of Oscar and Wu Lei. This synergy is like Oscar constantly providing chances and Wu Lei seizing them to turn the cake into goals, so it's no wonder Wu Lei is second on the list of top scorers.
Wu Lei's powerful, can not be separated from Oscar's "feed cake". If there is no Oscar, the performance of Wu Lei should be at least 30%, or even 60%.
Shanghai Port, on the other hand, is simply a different team with Oscar and without him. 2022 was a season in which Oscar's inconsistent appearances led to the team's drop to fourth place in the league, with his prolonged absence playing a decisive role.
Wu Lei returned last August, but lacking Oscar's precise delivery, his efforts did not play a key role in the team's rise in the standings.
Oscar's absence in the 2022 season made Shanghai Port realize how important he was. That's why he wanted to return to play in Brazil at the time, but Shanghai Port's insistence made him stay - because he was indispensable.
Fortunately, Oscar's latest interview has reassured Shanghai Port. He retains the option to return to Brazil, but will not follow in Wu Lei's footsteps. He stated, "My plan is to finish the last year of my contract at Shanghai Port and then see what happens."
The statement gave Shanghai Port fans a sigh of relief that they don't have to worry about Oscar leaving the Chinese Super League in the 2024 season.
Oscar's retention is of great significance to Shanghai Port. With him, Wu Lei's goal scoring rate will be more secure, and the team's hope of winning the championship will be greatly increased; with him, the team's performance in the AFC Champions League will be more confident.
Oscar's willingness to stay on is not out of faith or public service, but because of his immediate interests. After all, faced with an annual salary of upwards of 20 million euros, no one would easily refuse. At a time when many Chinese Super League teams are facing wage arrears, it is indeed admirable that Shanghai Port can support the expensive foreign aid - it's good to have money!
