The Chinese Super League (CSL) has announced a significant change to its foreign player policy for the upcoming season, with a number of changes expected to impact the league's landscape.
According to the CSL, all clubs will now be allowed to sign up to three foreign players in their squad, rather than just two as previously. This means that teams will have more flexibility when it comes to selecting their foreign players and can now include additional players from overseas who may not otherwise qualify under current regulations.
In addition, the CSL has also introduced new rules regarding the minimum age at which foreign players must play in China. Starting from the 2019-20 season, foreign players aged 35 or older will only be able to play for one club in China, while those aged between 30 and 34 will be able to play for multiple clubs. This is aimed at reducing the risk of injury among older players and ensuring that they have enough time to adjust to the physical demands of Chinese football.
Another key change is the introduction of a new rule requiring all foreign players to undergo medical checks before joining a Chinese club. This is intended to ensure that all players meet certain health standards and are fit to play at the highest level of professional football in Asia.
Overall, these changes are expected to have a significant impact on the CSL and its foreign player market. While some clubs may welcome the increased competition brought about by these changes, others may struggle to adapt and find themselves unable to attract high-quality foreign talent to their squads. However, the long-term benefits of this policy could ultimately benefit both the CSL and its fans.