Shanghai Port FC Squad 2025: A Comprehensive Overview
Shanghai Port FC, one of the most prominent football clubs in the Chinese Super League (CSL), has consistently demonstrated its ambition to dominate both domestically and on the continental stage. As the 2025 season approaches, the club has meticulously assembled a squad brimming with talent, experience, and potential. This article delves into the intricacies of the Shanghai Port FC squad for 2025, providing an in-depth analysis of each player. The squad is divided into four key sections: Goalkeepers, Defenders, Midfielders, and Forwards. Each player’s profile includes their nationality, former clubs, transfer fees, and a detailed description of their skills, achievements, and contributions to the team.
Goalkeepers
- Yan Junling
- Nationality: Chinese
- Former Clubs: Shanghai Port FC (youth academy)
- Transfer Fee: N/A (homegrown talent)
Yan Junling remains the undisputed first-choice goalkeeper for Shanghai Port FC. A product of the club’s youth academy, Yan has been a stalwart between the posts for over a decade. Known for his exceptional reflexes, commanding presence, and ability to organize the defense, he has earned numerous accolades, including multiple CSL Golden Glove awards. His loyalty to the club and consistent performances make him a fan favorite and a vital component of the team’s success.
- Chen Wei
- Nationality: Chinese
- Former Clubs: Shanghai Shenhua, Tianjin TEDA
- Transfer Fee: €1.5 million (2022)
Chen Wei serves as a reliable backup to Yan Junling. Having joined from Shanghai Shenhua in 2022, Chen brings experience and composure to the squad. His shot-stopping ability and distribution skills have improved significantly under the guidance of the coaching staff. While he may not feature regularly, his professionalism and readiness to step up when called upon make him an invaluable asset.
- Guo Jing
- Nationality: Chinese
- Former Clubs: Guangzhou Evergrande (youth academy)
- Transfer Fee: €500,000 (2023)
A promising young goalkeeper, Guo Jing joined Shanghai Port FC in 2023 as part of the club’s strategy to nurture future stars. At just 22 years old, he has already shown glimpses of his potential during cup matches and preseason friendlies. His agility and quick decision-making have drawn comparisons to a young Yan Junling, and the club is optimistic about his development.
Defenders
- Li Ang
- Nationality: Chinese
- Former Clubs: Jiangsu Suning, Beijing Guoan
- Transfer Fee: €2 million (2021)
Li Ang is a versatile defender capable of playing both as a center-back and left-back. His physicality, aerial prowess, and ability to read the game make him a cornerstone of Shanghai Port’s defense. Since joining from Jiangsu Suning in 2021, Li has been instrumental in the club’s domestic and continental campaigns, earning a reputation as one of the league’s most consistent defenders.
- Wang Shenchao
- Nationality: Chinese
- Former Clubs: Shanghai Port FC (youth academy)
- Transfer Fee: N/A (homegrown talent)
Wang Shenchao is a one-club man who has spent his entire career at Shanghai Port FC. Primarily a right-back, Wang is known for his tireless work rate, overlapping runs, and precise crossing. His leadership qualities have seen him wear the captain’s armband on several occasions, and his loyalty to the club has made him a symbol of its identity.
- Mirahmetjan Muzepper
- Nationality: Chinese (Uyghur ethnicity)
- Former Clubs: Tianjin TEDA, Henan Jianye
- Transfer Fee: €1.8 million (2020)
A technically gifted center-back, Mirahmetjan Muzepper has been a key figure in Shanghai Port’s defense since his arrival in 2020. His ability to play out from the back and his composure under pressure have earned him plaudits from fans and pundits alike. Despite facing stiff competition, he has consistently delivered solid performances.
- Zhang Linpeng
- Nationality: Chinese
- Former Clubs: Guangzhou Evergrande
- Transfer Fee: €3 million (2024)
Zhang Linpeng, often referred to as the “Chinese Ramos,” joined Shanghai Port FC in 2024 after a highly successful stint with Guangzhou Evergrande. Known for his physicality, versatility, and leadership, Zhang has seamlessly integrated into the squad. His experience in both domestic and international competitions adds invaluable depth to the defense.
- Yu Hai
- Nationality: Chinese
- Former Clubs: Guizhou Renhe, Shaanxi Chanba
- Transfer Fee: €1.2 million (2015)
A veteran of the game, Yu Hai continues to defy age with his consistent performances. Primarily a left-back, Yu’s tactical intelligence and ability to contribute in both defense and attack make him a valuable squad player. His experience and mentorship have been crucial in guiding the younger members of the team.
- Wei Zhen
- Nationality: Chinese
- Former Clubs: Shanghai Shenxin, Hebei China Fortune
- Transfer Fee: €800,000 (2023)
Wei Zhen joined Shanghai Port FC in 2023 as a backup option in defense. While he may not feature regularly, his versatility and ability to play across the backline make him a useful addition to the squad. His work ethic and determination have earned him the respect of his teammates.
Midfielders
- Oscar
- Nationality: Brazilian
- Former Clubs: Chelsea, Internacional, São Paulo
- Transfer Fee: €60 million (2017)
Oscar remains the crown jewel of Shanghai Port FC’s midfield. The Brazilian playmaker, who joined the club in 2017 for a then-Asian record fee, continues to dazzle with his vision, passing, and goal-scoring ability. A former Chelsea star, Oscar has been the driving force behind the club’s success, consistently topping the CSL assists charts and delivering match-winning performances.
- Aaron Mooy
- Nationality: Australian
- Former Clubs: Brighton & Hove Albion, Huddersfield Town, Melbourne City
- Transfer Fee: €5 million (2022)
Aaron Mooy’s arrival in 2022 added a new dimension to Shanghai Port’s midfield. The Australian international is known for his tireless work rate, precise passing, and ability to control the tempo of the game. His experience in European leagues has been invaluable, and he has quickly become a fan favorite.
- Yang Shiyuan
- Nationality: Chinese
- Former Clubs: Guangzhou Evergrande, Tianjin TEDA
- Transfer Fee: €2.5 million (2023)
Yang Shiyuan is a dynamic box-to-box midfielder who joined Shanghai Port FC in 2023. His energy, tackling, and ability to contribute goals from midfield have made him a key player. Yang’s versatility allows him to play in multiple roles, providing the coach with tactical flexibility.
- Hulk
- Nationality: Brazilian
- Former Clubs: Porto, Zenit Saint Petersburg, FC Tokyo
- Transfer Fee: €55 million (2016)
Although primarily a forward, Hulk often drops deep to influence play from midfield. The Brazilian powerhouse, known for his thunderous strikes and physicality, has been a talismanic figure for Shanghai Port since his arrival in 2016. His leadership and experience continue to inspire the team.
- Chen Binbin
- Nationality: Chinese
- Former Clubs: Shanghai Port FC (youth academy)
- Transfer Fee: N/A (homegrown talent)
Chen Binbin is a product of the club’s youth academy and has developed into one of the most exciting young midfielders in the CSL. His dribbling, creativity, and eye for goal have drawn comparisons to Oscar, and he is widely regarded as the future of the club.
- Lü Wenjun
- Nationality: Chinese
- Former Clubs: Shanghai Shenhua, Guangzhou R&F
- Transfer Fee: €1.5 million (2019)
Lü Wenjun is a versatile midfielder capable of playing on the wing or in a central role. His pace, crossing, and ability to deliver in big moments have made him a valuable asset. Lü’s experience and consistency have been crucial in the club’s pursuit of silverware.
Forwards
- Marko Arnautović
- Nationality: Austrian
- Former Clubs: West Ham United, Stoke City, Inter Milan
- Transfer Fee: €10 million (2024)
Marko Arnautović joined Shanghai Port FC in 2024 and has quickly established himself as the team’s primary striker. The Austrian forward, known for his physicality, technical ability, and clinical finishing, has brought a new edge to the attack. His experience in top European leagues has been invaluable.
- Wu Lei
- Nationality: Chinese
- Former Clubs: Espanyol, Shanghai Port FC (youth academy)
- Transfer Fee: €2 million (2022, return from Espanyol)
Wu Lei, often referred to as the “Chinese Maradona,” returned to Shanghai Port FC in 2022 after a successful spell in Spain. The forward’s pace, dribbling, and goal-scoring ability have made him a fan favorite. Wu’s return has significantly bolstered the team’s attacking options.
- Ricardo Lopes
- Nationality: Brazilian
- Former Clubs: Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors, Vasco da Gama
- Transfer Fee: €6 million (2021)
Ricardo Lopes is a versatile forward capable of playing as a winger or center-forward. His pace, technical skills, and ability to create chances have made him a key player. Lopes’ contributions have been crucial in the club’s domestic and continental campaigns.
- Liu Zhurun
- Nationality: Chinese
- Former Clubs: Shanghai Port FC (youth academy)
- Transfer Fee: N/A (homegrown talent)
Liu Zhurun is one of the most promising young forwards in Chinese football. A product of the club’s youth academy, Liu has impressed with his composure, finishing, and ability to perform under pressure. The club sees him as a future star.
Conclusion
The 2025 Shanghai Port FC squad is a blend of experience, youth, and international talent. With a strong core of homegrown players complemented by high-profile signings, the team is well-equipped to challenge for domestic and continental honors. The meticulous planning and investment in both established stars and emerging talents reflect the club’s ambition to remain at the pinnacle of Asian football. As the new season unfolds, fans can look forward to thrilling performances and a relentless pursuit of success.