Controversy over big names

The arrival of renowned foreign players will hardly benefit the growth of Chinese soccer, said some Dutch coaches working in China, while some others think that is a good way for Chinese soccer.

The arrival of international stars like Nicolas Anelka gives the Chinese league a new impulse. More soccer super stars might follow his example, because the rich club owners' coffers seem to be fathomless.

However, will the arrival of big new names do good to Chinese soccer? The Dutch coaches are divided on that issue.

"The signing of Anelka is good for Chinese soccer," said Theo de Jong. "The young players will look up to them, imitate them. I had done the same when I saw Pele played. This is important for the Chinese youth. Hopefully they can learn from him. Nevertheless, Anelka and others really need to show it on the pitch."

"It seems the right direction to continue to invest in big names," added Versleijen. "We saw the same development a while ago in Japan's J-League. It's a way of increasing the popularity of soccer."

However, in Japan it was a tactic of the entire J-League organization, but that is not the case in China. It's more a matter of the whim of individual owners, more like what happens in the Middle East.

Schans and Bonfrere wondered if Chinese soccer will really benefit from an influx of foreigners.

"Actually, foreigners contribute little to Chinese soccer," said Bonfrere. "The young players get less chances when clubs continue to buy players. These players have an obligation to supporters. Just ask a coach who they need. Anelka has played in Europe and I doubt he still has the right mentality. He gets paid much more than Chinese players, but contributes little. It's not a good thing for the Chinese team."

"Chinese soccer is going through a major change," concluded Schans. "It is good that major sponsors are coming back, but the Chinese team is still missing a good defensive midfielder, a good attacking midfielder and a good striker. These positions are occupied by foreigners at the club. So how could you expect a decent national team?"