After the first round of the Chinese Super League, the audience could not help but be shocked by the endless cold scores. Last season's favorites, Taishan and Zhejiang both suffered Waterloo, leaving countless fans staggered. They won the championship for three consecutive years, but unexpectedly lost in the first round of the game, which is extremely rare in the past. People try to dig behind the reason, found that these three teams are due to the absence of core players and setbacks, Taishan team less Malcolm, Cressan and other key firepower, while the Zhejiang team lost the former international footballer, the main goalkeeper and the captain of the Gu Chao, offensive and defensive ends have suffered a heavy blow, the competitiveness of the drastic decline.
While Malcolm's departure and Cressan's suspension were expected, the sudden retirement of champion goalkeeper Gu Chao was a surprise. Gu Chao had been in the April 1 "Gift Cup" match with Taishan team as the first, and no recent injuries, but now mysteriously disappeared, even the replacement lineup did not show up, triggering widespread concern. According to sources familiar with the matter, Gu Chao has been taken away to assist in the investigation because of his withdrawal from the first round of the tournament, and former Jiangsu vice president Yin Longcheng also suffered the same fate.
Gu Chao's exit appears to be related to a key associated match. According to reports, they may be involved in an investigation into the one-goal difference between Suning and Shenhua in 2019. The exact details are unclear, but speculation is that the investigation is related to the controversy surrounding the recent match. As for whether Gu Chao will be able to return, there is no certainty. From past experience, if only assisting in the investigation, the time will not be too long, and is expected to return to the club. If violations are involved, there is no hope for a return, and may even have a serious impact on his career, or even early retirement.
Goalkeepers, as the last line of defense for a team, are often fatal to the outcome of a game if something goes wrong. With this investigation, Gu's future is in doubt. Fans are also worried about the 33-year-old goalkeeper. On the one hand, Gu Chao was an absolute starter last season and a key contributor to Zhejiang's third-place finish. The absence of the main goalkeeper will have an obvious impact on the first round of the tournament. If he doesn't return for a long time, it will be difficult to guarantee Zhejiang's performance.
On the other hand, 33-year-old Gu Chao is in his prime as a goalkeeper, with both strength and experience. His departure is really regrettable. Although this matter is related to the image of the club, but at present can only cooperate with the investigation and wait for the final results.
