Dalian Yingbo FC Squad 2025
Introduction
Dalian Yingbo FC has emerged as one of the most exciting teams in Chinese football, blending youthful talent with experienced professionals to create a squad capable of competing at the highest level. As the 2025 season approaches, the club has made significant strides in the transfer market, securing a mix of domestic stars and international imports. This post delves into the detailed composition of the Dalian Yingbo FC squad for 2025, breaking down the players by position and providing an in-depth analysis of each individual. From goalkeepers to forwards, every player’s journey, achievements, and contributions to the team are explored, offering a comprehensive look at what makes this squad so special.
Goalkeepers
- Zhang Zhen (China)
Zhang Zhen, a homegrown talent, has been the backbone of Dalian Yingbo FC’s defense since his debut in 2020. Known for his lightning-fast reflexes and exceptional command of the penalty area, Zhang has earned a reputation as one of the most reliable goalkeepers in the Chinese Super League. Standing at 6’3”, he dominates aerial duels and has a remarkable save percentage of 78% over the past two seasons. Zhang’s loyalty to the club is unwavering, having never played for any other team. His leadership on and off the pitch makes him a fan favorite and a crucial figure in the squad. - Igor Akinfeev (Russia)
A legendary figure in Russian football, Igor Akinfeev joined Dalian Yingbo FC in 2024 after a storied career with CSKA Moscow. The 39-year-old veteran brings a wealth of experience, having made over 700 appearances for his former club and earning 111 caps for the Russian national team. Akinfeev’s transfer fee of €1.5 million was seen as a bargain, given his ability to mentor younger players and deliver in high-pressure situations. Despite his age, he remains a formidable presence between the posts, with his positioning and shot-stopping abilities still among the best in the league. - Li Hao (China)
Li Hao, a promising 22-year-old goalkeeper, was signed from Guangzhou Evergrande in 2023 for a fee of €500,000. Known for his agility and quick decision-making, Li has quickly established himself as a reliable backup to Zhang Zhen. His performances in the CFA Cup last season, where he kept three clean sheets in four matches, showcased his potential to become a future star. Li’s dedication to improving his game and his willingness to learn from senior players like Akinfeev make him an invaluable asset to the squad.
Defenders
- Wang Shenchao (China)
Wang Shenchao, a versatile right-back, joined Dalian Yingbo FC in 2022 from Shanghai SIPG for a transfer fee of €2 million. Renowned for his tireless work rate and pinpoint crossing ability, Wang has become a key component of the team’s defensive and offensive strategies. In the 2024 season, he contributed five assists and maintained a tackle success rate of 82%. His leadership qualities and consistency have earned him the vice-captaincy, making him an integral part of the squad. - Kim Min-jae (South Korea)
Kim Min-jae, affectionately known as “The Monster,” arrived at Dalian Yingbo FC in 2023 from Napoli for a club-record fee of €15 million. The 28-year-old center-back is a towering presence at 6’4” and is celebrated for his physicality, aerial dominance, and ability to read the game. Kim’s performances in Serie A earned him a reputation as one of the best defenders in Europe, and his arrival has significantly bolstered Dalian’s backline. In his debut season, he averaged 4.5 clearances and 2.3 interceptions per game, solidifying his status as a defensive stalwart. - Li Lei (China)
Li Lei, a left-back with a penchant for joining the attack, was signed from Beijing Guoan in 2021 for €1.2 million. His overlapping runs and accurate deliveries into the box have made him a constant threat down the flank. Li’s defensive contributions are equally impressive, with a tackle success rate of 79% in the 2024 season. At 30 years old, he brings a wealth of experience and remains one of the most consistent performers in the squad. - Stefan de Vrij (Netherlands)
Stefan de Vrij, a seasoned Dutch defender, joined Dalian Yingbo FC in 2024 on a free transfer after leaving Inter Milan. The 33-year-old’s composure, tactical intelligence, and ability to play out from the back have added a new dimension to the team’s defense. De Vrij’s partnership with Kim Min-jae has been instrumental in Dalian’s defensive solidity, with the duo conceding just 18 goals in 25 matches together. His leadership and experience at the highest level make him an invaluable addition to the squad. - Zhang Linpeng (China)
Zhang Linpeng, often referred to as “China’s Sergio Ramos,” returned to Dalian Yingbo FC in 2023 after a successful stint with Guangzhou Evergrande. The 35-year-old center-back is known for his aggressive style of play, aerial prowess, and ability to score crucial goals. Despite his age, Zhang remains a key figure in the squad, providing mentorship to younger players and delivering consistent performances. His return to the club was met with widespread acclaim, and he continues to be a fan favorite.
Midfielders
- Oscar (Brazil)
Oscar, the Brazilian playmaker, joined Dalian Yingbo FC in 2024 from Shanghai Port for a fee of €10 million. The 33-year-old’s vision, passing range, and ability to dictate the tempo of the game have made him the heartbeat of the team. In his debut season, Oscar recorded 12 assists and 8 goals, earning him the title of the league’s best midfielder. His experience in both European and Asian football has been invaluable, and he remains one of the most technically gifted players in the squad. - Huang Bowen (China)
Huang Bowen, a dynamic box-to-box midfielder, has been with Dalian Yingbo FC since 2020. Known for his energy, tenacity, and ability to break up opposition play, Huang is a vital cog in the team’s midfield. His passing accuracy of 89% in the 2024 season highlights his ability to contribute both defensively and offensively. At 32 years old, Huang’s experience and work ethic continue to inspire his teammates. - Sergej Milinković-Savić (Serbia)
Sergej Milinković-Savić, a towering presence in midfield, joined Dalian Yingbo FC in 2023 from Lazio for a fee of €20 million. The 29-year-old’s physicality, technical ability, and eye for goal have made him one of the most complete midfielders in the league. In his first season, he scored 10 goals and provided 7 assists, earning a place in the league’s Team of the Year. Milinković-Savić’s arrival has elevated the team’s midfield to new heights, and he remains a key player for the club. - Wu Xi (China)
Wu Xi, the captain of the Chinese national team, joined Dalian Yingbo FC in 2022 from Jiangsu Suning for a fee of €1.5 million. The 35-year-old’s leadership, tactical intelligence, and ability to control the midfield have been instrumental in the team’s success. Despite his age, Wu continues to deliver consistent performances, and his experience has been crucial in guiding younger players. - Paulinho (Brazil)
Paulinho, a former Barcelona and Guangzhou Evergrande midfielder, joined Dalian Yingbo FC in 2024 on a free transfer. The 36-year-old’s ability to arrive late in the box and score crucial goals has made him a valuable asset. In his debut season, he scored 6 goals and provided 4 assists, showcasing his enduring quality. Paulinho’s experience and winning mentality have been a welcome addition to the squad.
Forwards
- Wu Lei (China)
Wu Lei, often referred to as “China’s Maradona,” returned to Dalian Yingbo FC in 2023 after a successful spell with Espanyol in La Liga. The 33-year-old forward is known for his pace, dribbling ability, and clinical finishing. In the 2024 season, he scored 15 goals and provided 7 assists, earning him the Golden Boot award. Wu’s return to the club has been a major boost, and he remains one of the most exciting players in Chinese football. - Alex Teixeira (Brazil)
Alex Teixeira, a prolific forward, joined Dalian Yingbo FC in 2022 from Jiangsu Suning for a fee of €5 million. The 35-year-old’s ability to score from anywhere on the pitch has made him a constant threat to opposition defenses. In his debut season, he scored 18 goals and provided 6 assists, earning him a place in the league’s Team of the Year. Teixeira’s experience and goal-scoring prowess continue to be vital for the team. - Moise Kean (Italy)
Moise Kean, a young and talented forward, joined Dalian Yingbo FC in 2024 from Juventus for a fee of €25 million. The 24-year-old’s pace, strength, and finishing ability have made him one of the most exciting prospects in world football. In his debut season, he scored 12 goals and provided 5 assists, showcasing his potential to become a future star. Kean’s arrival has added a new dimension to the team’s attack, and he remains a key player for the club. - Elkeson (Brazil)
Elkeson, a naturalized Chinese citizen, joined Dalian Yingbo FC in 2021 from Guangzhou Evergrande for a fee of €3 million. The 36-year-old’s ability to score crucial goals in big moments has made him a fan favorite. In the 2024 season, he scored 10 goals and provided 4 assists, proving that he still has plenty to offer. Elkeson’s experience and goal-scoring ability continue to be vital for the team.
Conclusion
The 2025 Dalian Yingbo FC squad is a perfect blend of youth and experience, with a mix of domestic talent and international stars. From the commanding presence of Zhang Zhen in goal to the attacking flair of Wu Lei and Moise Kean, every player brings something unique to the team. The club’s strategic investments in the transfer market have paid off, creating a squad capable of challenging for domestic and international honors. As the new season approaches, fans can look forward to an exciting brand of football and the potential for silverware. Dalian Yingbo FC is poised to make history, and this squad is ready to lead the charge.