China’s Football Struggles Stem From a Relentless Need to Prove Itself
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For decades, Chinese football has been locked in a cycle of striving for external validation, a pursuit that may be hindering genuine progress, according to recent analysis. The constant pressure to demonstrate success, rather than focusing on sustainable development, has led to a series of missteps and ultimately, continued disappointment.
A History of Short-Term Fixes
The desire for recognition has consistently overshadowed long-term planning in Chinese football. Following qualification for the 2002 World Cup, a moment that was quickly hailed as “Chinese football has stood up,” the focus shifted from building a solid foundation to proving that success wasn’t a fluke. This mentality, as outlined in a recent commentary, has been a recurring theme.
Around 2010, an “anti-gambling and anti-criminal campaign” presented an opportunity for reform, but the response prioritized quick wins over systemic change. Professional leagues became entangled with political objectives, and the national team faced constant demands for immediate results. This pursuit of instant gratification, the analysis suggests, proved detrimental.
The “Jinyuan Football” Era and Its Consequences
The influx of capital during the “Jinyuan Football” era—a period of massive investment in the sport—further amplified this pattern. Huge sums were spent on foreign players and inflated salaries, presented as a symbol of China’s rising football prowess. However, this approach came at the expense of developing local talent and investing in youth training. The focus was on appearing competitive, on proving “you can afford it, you can afford it, and you can sustain it,” rather than fostering genuine growth.
When the capital dried up, the unsustainable structure collapsed, leaving behind a lack of capacity and long-term development. A similar pattern has played out with the national team, where frequent coaching changes are driven by the need to project a new image rather than adhering to sound footballing principles.
The Cycle of Failure and Reaction
Each setback triggers a predictable chain reaction: public outcry, increased accountability, and abrupt changes in direction. Rarely is there a pause to honestly assess the current state of Chinese football and acknowledge its limitations. The core issue isn’t the losses themselves, but the response to them.
What is holding Chinese football back from achieving sustained success? The relentless pursuit of external validation and a reluctance to accept a slower, more organic path to development are key obstacles.
The analysis recommends a shift in mindset. Chinese football needs to move away from its eagerness to “prove itself” and instead focus on honest self-assessment, accepting the gap in current capabilities, and embracing a long-term, patient approach. Only by acknowledging its shortcomings and accepting failure as a part of the process can Chinese football begin to build a sustainable future.
Ultimately, the path forward requires a willingness to prioritize genuine progress over the appearance of success. It’s about building a sport that allows for mistakes, mediocrity, and long-term investment, rather than a performance designed to constantly demonstrate “I am good.”
