Chengdu Rongcheng FC Forwards 2025
Chengdu Rongcheng FC, one of China’s most exciting football clubs, has been making waves in the Chinese Super League (CSL) with its dynamic and ambitious approach to building a competitive squad. As the club looks ahead to the 2025 season, its forward line stands out as a key area of strength, blending experienced campaigners with young, rising stars. This post delves into the current crop of forwards at Chengdu Rongcheng FC, providing an in-depth look at each player’s background, achievements, and contributions to the team. From international stars to homegrown talents, these forwards are poised to lead the charge in the club’s quest for glory.
Felipe Silva
Felipe Silva, a Brazilian striker, has been a cornerstone of Chengdu Rongcheng’s attack since his arrival in 2023. Born in São Paulo, Silva began his career at Corinthians, where his clinical finishing and physical presence quickly caught the attention of European scouts. He moved to Portugal’s Sporting CP in 2018, where he honed his skills under the guidance of top-tier coaches. After a successful stint in Europe, Silva made the switch to Asia, joining Chengdu Rongcheng for a transfer fee of €5 million. His ability to hold up play, combined with his aerial prowess, makes him a nightmare for defenders. In the 2024 season, Silva netted 18 goals in all competitions, cementing his status as one of the league’s most lethal forwards. His leadership on and off the pitch has also been invaluable, mentoring younger players and fostering a winning mentality within the squad.
Elkeson
A household name in Chinese football, Elkeson has enjoyed a storied career that has seen him become one of the most successful foreign players in CSL history. The Brazilian-born naturalized Chinese international joined Chengdu Rongcheng in 2022, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a proven track record. Elkeson first rose to prominence during his time at Guangzhou Evergrande, where he won multiple league titles and the AFC Champions League. His move to Chengdu Rongcheng was a statement of intent from the club, as they secured his services for a modest fee of €2.5 million. Known for his versatility, Elkeson can operate as a central striker or in a deeper role, linking play with his precise passing and intelligent movement. Despite being in the latter stages of his career, his fitness and dedication remain exemplary, and he continues to be a key contributor with his ability to deliver in crucial moments.
Romário Baldé
Hailing from Guinea-Bissau, Romário Baldé is a dynamic winger who has quickly become a fan favorite at Chengdu Rongcheng. Baldé’s journey to the CSL has been nothing short of remarkable. After starting his career at Sporting Bissau, he moved to Portugal’s Vitória de Guimarães, where his blistering pace and dribbling skills earned him a reputation as one of Africa’s most promising talents. Chengdu Rongcheng secured his signature in 2023 for a fee of €3.8 million, and he has since lived up to the hype. Baldé’s ability to stretch defenses with his speed and deliver pinpoint crosses has added a new dimension to the team’s attack. In the 2024 season, he contributed 10 goals and 12 assists, showcasing his ability to both score and create. At just 25 years old, Baldé’s best years are still ahead of him, and he is widely regarded as a player who could make the leap to a top European league in the near future.
Liu Ruofan
A product of Chengdu Rongcheng’s youth academy, Liu Ruofan represents the club’s commitment to nurturing local talent. The 26-year-old forward has been with the team since his teenage years, gradually developing into one of the most reliable attackers in the squad. Liu’s technical ability and work rate have made him a versatile option for the manager, capable of playing as a winger or a second striker. His breakthrough season came in 2022, when he scored 8 goals and provided 6 assists, earning him a call-up to the Chinese national team. Liu’s loyalty to Chengdu Rongcheng is a testament to his character, as he has turned down lucrative offers from other CSL clubs to remain with his boyhood team. His understanding of the club’s philosophy and his ability to perform under pressure make him an indispensable part of the forward line.
Andrija Vukčević
Montenegrin forward Andrija Vukčević joined Chengdu Rongcheng in 2024, adding a new layer of creativity and flair to the team’s attack. Vukčević began his career at Budućnost Podgorica before moving to Serbia’s Red Star Belgrade, where he gained valuable experience in European competitions. His performances in the Serbian SuperLiga attracted interest from several clubs, but it was Chengdu Rongcheng who won the race for his signature, paying a transfer fee of €4.2 million. Vukčević is known for his exceptional vision and ability to unlock defenses with incisive passes. In his debut season, he formed a formidable partnership with Felipe Silva, contributing 7 goals and 9 assists. His adaptability and tactical intelligence allow him to thrive in various attacking roles, making him a key asset for the team.
Han Chao
Han Chao is another homegrown talent who has risen through the ranks to become a vital part of Chengdu Rongcheng’s forward line. The 24-year-old striker made his first-team debut in 2020 and has since established himself as a reliable goal scorer. Han’s playing style is characterized by his quick feet and ability to find space in crowded penalty areas. His breakthrough moment came in the 2023 season, when he scored a last-minute winner against Beijing Guoan, endearing him to the fans. Han’s development has been steady, and he continues to improve with each passing season. His dedication to the club and his willingness to learn from more experienced teammates have been key factors in his growth. With 6 goals and 4 assists in the 2024 season, Han is proving that he has what it takes to compete at the highest level.
Ricardo Goulart
A familiar face in Chinese football, Ricardo Goulart returned to the CSL in 2023, signing with Chengdu Rongcheng after a brief spell in Brazil. The Brazilian attacking midfielder, who can also operate as a forward, first made his mark in China with Guangzhou Evergrande, where he won numerous titles and individual accolades. Goulart’s return to the CSL was met with great excitement, and Chengdu Rongcheng secured his services on a free transfer. Despite being in his early 30s, Goulart’s technical ability and goal-scoring instincts remain sharp. His experience and composure in high-pressure situations have been invaluable for the team, particularly in tight matches. In the 2024 season, he contributed 5 goals and 7 assists, demonstrating that he still has plenty to offer at the highest level.
Zhang Gong
Zhang Gong is a young forward who has been making steady progress since joining Chengdu Rongcheng’s first team in 2022. The 22-year-old, who hails from Sichuan Province, has been with the club since the age of 15, progressing through the youth ranks with distinction. Zhang’s playing style is defined by his agility and ability to take on defenders in one-on-one situations. While he is still developing physically, his technical skills and footballing intelligence have earned him regular playing time. The 2024 season saw Zhang score his first professional goal, a moment that marked a significant milestone in his career. With the right guidance and opportunities, Zhang has the potential to become a key player for both Chengdu Rongcheng and the Chinese national team in the years to come.
Conclusion
Chengdu Rongcheng FC’s forward line for the 2025 season is a blend of experience, youth, and international quality. From the clinical finishing of Felipe Silva to the homegrown talents of Liu Ruofan and Han Chao, the club boasts a diverse array of attacking options. The addition of exciting prospects like Romário Baldé and Zhang Gong ensures that the team is well-equipped for both the present and the future. As Chengdu Rongcheng continues to build on its recent successes, its forwards will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in the club’s pursuit of silverware. With a perfect mix of local and international stars, the future looks bright for this ambitious CSL side.