In the AFC Champions League, the future of the three teams in the Chinese Super League is becoming clearer. Shandong Taishan performed well, while Zhejiang still had a chance of survival in the final round, but Wuhan Sanzhen regretted to say goodbye early. With the departures of Moises and Fellaini, and Brazilian outside back Pato embarking on a new journey, Shandong Taishan are set for a massive squad shake-up next year. Zeca, the Brazilian center forward, who has been confirmed to join Pohang Steelers of the K-League, retweeted his transfer on social media, heralding his move to Shandong Taishan.
With his high center forward status and versatility on the ball, Zeca is unsurprisingly set to arrive in Shandong Taishan in January to join the team's winter training with plenty of time to gel. Coach Choi Kang-hee handpicked him not only for his heading skills, but also for his outstanding performances in the AFC Champions League. In four games, he contributed three goals and three assists. As a former AFC Champions League winning manager, Choi Kang-hee is not satisfied with his achievements in the Chinese Super League and is eager to go further in the AFC Champions League.
Leonardo, a player on loan out of Taishan, scored again in the AFC Champions League. His complementary style with Zeca seems to be able to return to his former glory. They formed an attacking trident with Cressan that was extremely efficient. However, the possibility of Leonardo's return is slim. First of all, the issue of money has become the primary consideration, with Leonardo able to bring in at least 3 million dollars in transfer fees. Shandong Taishan will need to strengthen a lot of places next year, and with limited funds, there are only trade-offs to be made.
On the other hand, Zhejiang clashed with their opponents after defeating Buriram United. Leonardo stood up for his teammates but suffered a ban as a result, which not only affects Zhejiang's final AFC Champions League match, but Leonardo will also face an AFC Champions League ban if Shandong Taishan advances to the knockout stage. Next February knockout round, Shandong Taishan team foreign aid will be more restricted, Leonardo obviously will not return, also does not meet the team's tactical needs.
Pato said goodbye early due to an injury and his performance was mediocre. Shandong Taishan will need to replace three foreigners, with Jadson and Kressan staying on and Zeca replacing Fellaini. Kaza, a foreigner from the K-League, is also expected to join the team. He is capable of playing as a striker and winger, bringing more options to the offense. In addition, a Korean back-rower will also join the team. Shandong Taishan will have a fierce competition with other teams.
The departure of Fellaini and Moises in the final round against Yokohama Mariners showed Choi Kang-hee's confidence. Although it is difficult to win the game, Cui Kangxi did not give up lightly. Since the departure of Fellaini, Shandong Taishan has been looking for a new foreigner. There is still some time to go before the next game. In recent years, Chinese Super League teams have been aggressive in the AFC Champions League. Cui Kangxi has brought new weather to Taishan team and the Chinese Super League. Next year, the team is expected to compete for the championship, and the introduction of internal reinforcements will be the focus.
