Meizhou Hakka FC Squad 2025: A Comprehensive Overview
Meizhou Hakka FC, one of China’s most promising football clubs, has undergone significant transformation ahead of the 2025 season. With a blend of experienced veterans and emerging talents, the club has strategically reinforced its squad to compete at the highest level in the Chinese Super League (CSL) and beyond. This post delves into the detailed composition of the Meizhou Hakka FC squad for 2025, breaking down the players by position: goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders, and forwards. Each player’s profile includes their nationality, career trajectory, former clubs, transfer fees, and key attributes that make them indispensable to the team.
Goalkeepers
- Hou Yu (China)
A stalwart between the posts, Hou Yu has been a consistent performer for Meizhou Hakka since joining the club in 2021. Born in Guangdong, China, Hou has risen through the ranks of domestic football, earning a reputation for his quick reflexes and commanding presence in the box. Before joining Meizhou, he played for Guangzhou Evergrande’s youth academy and later for Shenzhen FC, where he made 45 appearances. His transfer to Meizhou Hakka in 2021 cost the club approximately €500,000. Standing at 1.88 meters, Hou is known for his ability to organize the defense and pull off crucial saves in high-pressure situations. - Zhang Zhenqiang (China)
Zhang Zhenqiang, a reliable backup goalkeeper, provides depth and competition for the starting spot. Hailing from Shandong, Zhang began his career at Shandong Luneng before moving to Meizhou Hakka in 2023 for a nominal fee of €200,000. At 28 years old, he brings experience and stability, having made over 60 appearances in the CSL. His strengths include his distribution and ability to read the game, making him a dependable option when called upon. - Kim Dong-jun (South Korea)
The South Korean shot-stopper joined Meizhou Hakka in 2024 from Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors for a transfer fee of €1.2 million. Kim, 26, is known for his agility and acrobatic saves, earning him a spot in the South Korean national team setup. His arrival has added an international flavor to the squad, and his experience in the AFC Champions League makes him a valuable asset for Meizhou’s continental ambitions.
Defenders
- Du Jiaqi (China)
A versatile defender capable of playing both center-back and right-back, Du Jiaqi has been a mainstay in Meizhou’s backline since 2022. Born in Henan, Du previously played for Henan Jianye, where he made over 100 appearances. His transfer to Meizhou Hakka cost the club €800,000. Known for his physicality and aerial prowess, Du is a key figure in set-piece situations at both ends of the pitch. - Liao Junjian (China)
Liao Junjian, a left-back with a knack for overlapping runs, joined Meizhou Hakka in 2023 from Guangzhou City for €600,000. The 27-year-old is celebrated for his stamina and crossing ability, often contributing to the team’s attacking play. His defensive discipline and work rate make him a fan favorite. - Milos Degenek (Australia)
The Australian international joined Meizhou Hakka in 2024 from Columbus Crew in MLS for a fee of €1.5 million. Degenek, 30, brings a wealth of experience, having played in Europe, Asia, and North America. His leadership qualities and ability to read the game have solidified Meizhou’s defense, making him a cornerstone of the team. - Wang Wei (China)
Wang Wei, a young and promising center-back, was promoted from Meizhou’s youth academy in 2023. At just 21 years old, Wang has already shown maturity beyond his years, earning comparisons to some of China’s best defenders. His composure on the ball and ability to intercept opposition attacks have made him a regular starter. - Rafael Silva (Brazil)
The Brazilian defender joined Meizhou Hakka in 2025 from Fluminense for €2 million. Silva, 28, is known for his physicality and ability to play out from the back. His experience in South American football adds a new dimension to Meizhou’s defensive options.
Midfielders
- Chen Jie (China)
A dynamic box-to-box midfielder, Chen Jie has been with Meizhou Hakka since 2020. Born in Sichuan, Chen previously played for Chengdu Blades before moving to Meizhou for €400,000. His energy, tackling, and ability to drive forward with the ball make him a vital cog in the team’s midfield. - Ivan Santini (Croatia)
The Croatian international joined Meizhou Hakka in 2024 from Osijek for €1.8 million. Santini, 31, is a creative force in midfield, known for his vision and passing range. His experience in European football, including stints in Belgium and Italy, has elevated Meizhou’s midfield quality. - Huang Bowen (China)
Huang Bowen, a defensive midfielder, joined Meizhou Hakka in 2023 from Beijing Guoan for €1 million. The 32-year-old is a seasoned campaigner in the CSL, with over 200 appearances to his name. His ability to break up play and distribute the ball efficiently has been crucial for Meizhou. - Luiz Fernando (Brazil)
The Brazilian attacking midfielder arrived at Meizhou Hakka in 2025 from Palmeiras for €2.5 million. Fernando, 26, is known for his dribbling skills, creativity, and eye for goal. His flair and technical ability have added a new dimension to Meizhou’s attacking play. - Wang Jinxian (China)
A product of Meizhou’s youth academy, Wang Jinxian made his first-team debut in 2024. The 20-year-old is a versatile midfielder capable of playing in multiple roles. His work ethic and potential have earned him a place in the squad.
Forwards
- Dorielton (Brazil)
The Brazilian striker joined Meizhou Hakka in 2023 from Kashiwa Reysol for €1.5 million. Dorielton, 29, is a prolific goal scorer known for his clinical finishing and movement off the ball. His contributions have been instrumental in Meizhou’s recent successes. - Wu Xinghan (China)
Wu Xinghan, a versatile forward, joined Meizhou Hakka in 2022 from Shandong Luneng for €700,000. The 30-year-old is known for his pace and ability to play on either wing or as a central striker. His experience and versatility make him a valuable asset. - Aboubakar Keita (Ivory Coast)
The Ivorian forward joined Meizhou Hakka in 2024 from Al-Ittihad for €2 million. Keita, 27, is a powerful and agile striker with a knack for scoring in crucial moments. His physical presence and goal-scoring ability have made him a fan favorite. - Liu Binbin (China)
Liu Binbin, a winger with blistering pace, joined Meizhou Hakka in 2023 from Shandong Luneng for €900,000. The 31-year-old is known for his dribbling and ability to deliver pinpoint crosses. His experience in the CSL has been invaluable for Meizhou. - Yang Chaosheng (China)
A young and promising forward, Yang Chaosheng was promoted from Meizhou’s youth academy in 2024. At just 19 years old, Yang has already shown glimpses of his potential, with his speed and finishing ability earning him a place in the first team.
Conclusion
Meizhou Hakka FC’s squad for 2025 is a perfect blend of youth and experience, with a mix of domestic and international talent. The club’s strategic signings and focus on developing young players have positioned them as serious contenders in the CSL and beyond. With a strong core of goalkeepers, a solid defensive line, a creative midfield, and a dynamic attack, Meizhou Hakka is poised to make waves in the 2025 season. Fans can look forward to an exciting brand of football as the team aims to achieve new heights.
