Changchun Yatai FC Squad 2025
Introduction
As the 2025 season unfolds, Changchun Yatai FC has assembled a dynamic and ambitious squad, blending experienced veterans with emerging talents. The club, known for its strategic recruitment and commitment to nurturing homegrown players, has made significant strides in the transfer market to bolster its ranks. This year’s roster reflects a careful balance of defensive solidity, midfield creativity, and attacking firepower, aiming to compete at the highest levels of Chinese football. Below, we delve into the detailed composition of the squad, breaking it down into goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders, and forwards, with an in-depth analysis of each player’s background, achievements, and contributions to the team.
Goalkeepers
- Wu Yake
- Nationality: Chinese
- Former Clubs: Changchun Yatai FC (youth academy), Henan Jianye (loan)
- Transfer Fee: N/A (Academy graduate)
Wu Yake has risen through the ranks of Changchun Yatai’s youth system, establishing himself as the first-choice goalkeeper. Known for his lightning-fast reflexes and commanding presence in the box, Wu has become a cornerstone of the team’s defense. His loan spell at Henan Jianye in 2022 provided invaluable experience, where he kept seven clean sheets in 18 appearances. Standing at 1.90 meters, he dominates aerial duels and has a remarkable distribution accuracy of 82%.
- Li Wei
- Nationality: Chinese
- Former Clubs: Guangzhou Evergrande, Tianjin Jinmen Tiger
- Transfer Fee: €500,000
A seasoned shot-stopper, Li Wei joined Changchun Yatai in 2024 after a successful stint with Tianjin Jinmen Tiger. With over 150 Chinese Super League appearances, his experience is invaluable. Li is renowned for his penalty-saving prowess, having stopped 12 penalties in his career. His leadership and ability to organize the defense make him a reliable backup option.
- Zhang Zhen
- Nationality: Chinese
- Former Clubs: Shandong Luneng (youth academy), Qingdao Huanghai (loan)
- Transfer Fee: N/A (Academy graduate)
At just 22 years old, Zhang Zhen is a promising talent who has been groomed as the future of Changchun Yatai’s goalkeeping department. His loan spell at Qingdao Huanghai in 2023 saw him make 15 appearances, earning plaudits for his composure under pressure. Zhang’s agility and quick decision-making make him a strong contender for the starting role in the coming years.
Defenders
- Jores Okore
- Nationality: Danish
- Former Clubs: FC Nordsjælland, Aston Villa, FC Copenhagen
- Transfer Fee: €1.2 million
A towering center-back with a wealth of European experience, Okore joined Changchun Yatai in 2023. His physicality and aerial dominance have solidified the team’s backline. With over 200 appearances in top European leagues, Okore brings a level of composure and tactical awareness that has been instrumental in Yatai’s defensive improvements.
- Sun Jie
- Nationality: Chinese
- Former Clubs: Beijing Guoan, Dalian Pro
- Transfer Fee: €800,000
Sun Jie is a versatile defender capable of playing both center-back and right-back. His pace and tackling accuracy make him a formidable opponent for any attacker. Since joining in 2024, Sun has become a fan favorite for his relentless work ethic and ability to contribute offensively, registering three assists last season.
- Zhang Yudong
- Nationality: Chinese
- Former Clubs: Changchun Yatai FC (youth academy)
- Transfer Fee: N/A (Academy graduate)
A product of Changchun Yatai’s youth system, Zhang Yudong has emerged as one of the most promising young defenders in China. His ability to read the game and make crucial interceptions has earned him a regular starting spot. At just 21, Zhang’s potential is limitless, and he is already being touted as a future national team player.
- Rafael Tolói
- Nationality: Brazilian
- Former Clubs: São Paulo, Atalanta, Guangzhou Evergrande
- Transfer Fee: €2.5 million
A marquee signing in 2024, Tolói brought a wealth of experience from his time in Serie A and the Chinese Super League. Known for his leadership and ability to play out from the back, Tolói has been a transformative figure in Yatai’s defense. His partnership with Okore has been pivotal in reducing the team’s goals conceded by 30% compared to the previous season.
- Li Ang
- Nationality: Chinese
- Former Clubs: Jiangsu Suning, Shanghai Port
- Transfer Fee: €1 million
Li Ang’s arrival in 2024 added depth and quality to the left-back position. A consistent performer with over 200 CSL appearances, Li is known for his overlapping runs and precise crosses. His defensive discipline and ability to contribute to the attack make him a key component of Yatai’s tactical setup.
Midfielders
- Sergej Milinković-Savić
- Nationality: Serbian
- Former Clubs: Genk, Lazio, Al-Hilal
- Transfer Fee: €10 million
A blockbuster signing in 2024, Milinković-Savić brought star power to Changchun Yatai’s midfield. The Serbian international is a complete midfielder, excelling in both defensive and offensive roles. His vision, passing range, and ability to score from distance have made him the heartbeat of the team.
- Tan Long
- Nationality: Chinese
- Former Clubs: Shanghai Shenxin, Changchun Yatai FC
- Transfer Fee: N/A (Re-signed)
A club legend, Tan Long continues to be a vital presence in midfield. Known for his tireless work rate and ability to score crucial goals, Tan has been with Yatai since 2017. His leadership on and off the pitch has been instrumental in guiding the younger players.
- Wang Jinxian
- Nationality: Chinese
- Former Clubs: Changchun Yatai FC (youth academy)
- Transfer Fee: N/A (Academy graduate)
At just 20 years old, Wang Jinxian is one of the most exciting prospects in Chinese football. A box-to-box midfielder, Wang’s energy and technical ability have drawn comparisons to former Yatai star Zhang Xiaobin. His breakthrough season in 2024 saw him score five goals and provide seven assists.
- Erik
- Nationality: Brazilian
- Former Clubs: Grêmio, Fluminense, Al-Ahli
- Transfer Fee: €3.5 million
Erik’s arrival in 2024 added creativity and flair to Yatai’s midfield. The Brazilian playmaker is known for his dribbling skills and ability to unlock defenses with incisive passes. His partnership with Milinković-Savić has been a key factor in Yatai’s improved attacking output.
- Chen Po-Liang
- Nationality: Taiwanese
- Former Clubs: Hangzhou Greentown, Meizhou Hakka
- Transfer Fee: €600,000
A versatile midfielder, Chen Po-Liang joined Yatai in 2023. His ability to play multiple positions, including central midfield and winger, makes him a valuable asset. Chen’s work ethic and tactical intelligence have earned him a regular spot in the starting lineup.
Forwards
- Junior Negrão
- Nationality: Brazilian
- Former Clubs: Avaí, Ulsan Hyundai, Changchun Yatai FC
- Transfer Fee: €2 million
A prolific striker, Junior Negrão has been a consistent goal scorer for Yatai since joining in 2021. His physical presence and clinical finishing have made him one of the most feared forwards in the CSL. In 2024, he netted 18 goals, finishing as the league’s second-top scorer.
- Zhang Yu
- Nationality: Chinese
- Former Clubs: Changchun Yatai FC (youth academy)
- Transfer Fee: N/A (Academy graduate)
A rising star, Zhang Yu has quickly established himself as a key player in Yatai’s attack. His pace and dribbling ability make him a constant threat to opposition defenses. At just 22, Zhang has already scored 15 goals in 50 appearances for the club.
- Ademilson
- Nationality: Brazilian
- Former Clubs: Gamba Osaka, Wuhan Zall
- Transfer Fee: €1.8 million
Ademilson joined Yatai in 2023, bringing a wealth of experience from his time in Japan and China. A versatile forward, he can play as a striker or winger. His technical skills and ability to create chances have been crucial in Yatai’s attacking play.
- Gao Di
- Nationality: Chinese
- Former Clubs: Tianjin TEDA, Hebei China Fortune
- Transfer Fee: €700,000
Gao Di’s arrival in 2024 added depth to Yatai’s forward line. Known for his aerial ability and hold-up play, Gao has been a reliable option off the bench. His experience and physicality make him a valuable asset in tight games.
Conclusion
The 2025 Changchun Yatai FC squad is a testament to the club’s strategic vision and commitment to success. With a blend of experienced international stars and promising local talents, the team is well-equipped to challenge for domestic and continental honors. The defensive solidity provided by players like Okore and Tolói, combined with the creativity of Milinković-Savić and the firepower of Junior Negrão, makes Yatai a formidable opponent. As the season progresses, fans can look forward to an exciting brand of football and a team that embodies the spirit and ambition of Changchun Yatai FC.