China's foreign ministry said on Tuesday (May 16) that a South Korean soccer player&nbsp;Son Jun-ho, who plays in the Chinese Super League, suspected of accepting bribes has been detained by the public security department of northeast Liaoning province.

According to a South Korean diplomatic source, Son, who plays for the South Korean national team and Chinese Super League club Shandong Taishan, was detained on Friday (May 12), his 31st birthday.

“China is a country governed by the rule of law and will handle the relevant case in accordance with the law to protect the legal rights and interests of the person concerned,” ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin told a news briefing in Beijing.

Reuters was unable to reach Son for comment. South Korea's foreign ministry said its mission in China was providing necessary consular support to Son, but declined to comment further, citing privacy.

Son played in three of the national team's four games during the World Cup last year in Qatar, where South Korea reached the elimination round of the tournament for the first time in 12 years.

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The official, who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the case, said on Monday that the consulate had requested a meeting with Son as soon as possible and was in contact with his family. The official gave no further details.

Shandong Taishan have not commented publicly on the case but the club posted a message on its official Weibo account on the day he was detained, wishing him a happy birthday.

News of his detention was first published by Yonhap News. When asked about Son on Monday, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said he was not aware of the case.

Neither Shandong Taishan nor the Liaoning Public Security Department immediately responded to requests for comment on Monday. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

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China's foreign ministry said on Tuesday (May 16) that a South Korean soccer player Son Jun-ho, who plays in the Chinese Super League, suspected of accepting bribes has been detained by the public security department of northeast Liaoning province.

China's foreign ministry said on Tuesday (May 16) that a South Korean soccer player Son Jun-ho, who plays in the Chinese Super League, suspected of accepting bribes has been detained by the public security department of northeast Liaoning province. According to a South Korean diplomatic source, Son, who plays for the South Korean national team and Chinese Super League club Shandong Taishan, was detained on Friday (May 12), his 31st birthday. “China is a country governed by the rule of law and will handle the relevant case in accordance with the law to protect the legal rights and interests of the person concerned,” ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin told a news briefing in Beijing. Reuters was unable to reach Son for comment. South Korea's foreign ministry said its mission in China was providing necessary consular support to Son, but declined to comment further, citing privacy. Son played in three of the national team's four games during the World Cup last year in Qatar, where South Korea reached the elimination round of the tournament for the first time in 12 years. ALSO READ | IPL 2023: Shubman Gill breaks Sachin Tendulkar's unique record with maiden ton for Gujarat Titans The official, who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the case, said on Monday that the consulate had requested a meeting with Son as soon as possible and was in contact with his family. The official gave no further details. Shandong Taishan have not commented publicly on the case but the club posted a message on its official Weibo account on the day he was detained, wishing him a happy birthday. News of his detention was first published by Yonhap News. When asked about Son on Monday, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said he was not aware of the case. Neither Shandong Taishan nor the Liaoning Public Security Department immediately responded to requests for comment on Monday. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China detains South Korea’s national soccer player on charges of accepting bribes

South Korean soccer player Son Jun-ho is being held in police custody in northeast China in connection with a bribery case, a Korean diplomatic source said on Monday. Son was detained on Friday, his 31st birthday.

Reuters was unable to reach him for comment.

Son plays for the South Korean national team and Chinese Super League club Shandong Taishan, based in the northeastern province of Shandong.

Son was currently in the custody of the Liaoning Public Security Department in connection to a bribery case, according to an official at South Korea's consulate-general in Shenyang.

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The official, who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the case, said the consulate had requested a meeting with Son as soon as possible and was in contact with his family.

The official gave no further details.

Shandong Taishan have not commented publicly on the case but the club posted a message on its official Weibo account on the day he was detained wishing him a happy birthday.

News of his detention was first published by Yonhap News.

When asked about Son on Monday, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said he was not aware of the case.

Neither Shandong Taishan nor the Liaoning Public Security Department immediately responded to requests for comment.

South Korean soccer player Son Jun-ho is being held in police custody in northeast China in connection with a bribery case, a Korean diplomatic source said on Monday.

South Korean soccer player Son Jun-ho is being held in police custody in northeast China in connection with a bribery case, a Korean diplomatic source said on Monday. Son was detained on Friday, his 31st birthday. Reuters was unable to reach him for comment. Son plays for the South Korean national team and Chinese Super League club Shandong Taishan, based in the northeastern province of Shandong. Son was currently in the custody of the Liaoning Public Security Department in connection to a bribery case, according to an official at South Korea's consulate-general in Shenyang. ALSO READ: Ligue 1: French soccer anti-homophobia campaign causes row The official, who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the case, said the consulate had requested a meeting with Son as soon as possible and was in contact with his family. The official gave no further details. Shandong Taishan have not commented publicly on the case but the club posted a message on its official Weibo account on the day he was detained wishing him a happy birthday. News of his detention was first published by Yonhap News. When asked about Son on Monday, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said he was not aware of the case. Neither Shandong Taishan nor the Liaoning Public Security Department immediately responded to requests for comment.

Football: South Korean player Son Jun-ho detained in China on suspicion of bribery - Reports

The new Chinese Super League season kicks off on Saturday after three years of Covid controls with tickets reportedly selling out in just five minutes for the biggest match of the opening weekend. The remodelled Workers' Stadium in the capital will stage the opening ceremony and a clash between hosts Beijing Guoan and Meizhou Hakka, one of four games on Saturday to get the campaign underway.

After restrictions placed on Chinese football since the Covid pandemic, including games in secure "bubbles" and limits on attendances, fans will be able to see their beloved teams home and away again.

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The state-run Global Times reported there will be a capacity 68,000 crowd to watch title-contenders Beijing play Meizhou and said that tickets sold out in five minutes when they went on sale on Thursday. The newspaper said it will be the first match since the stadium underwent a vast rebuild and called it "the perfect location for the start of a new era in Chinese soccer".

The respected publication Soccer News said that there were also strong ticket sales for other games on the opening weekend.

Defending champions Wuhan Three Towns are also in action on Saturday when they host a Shanghai Port side containing the former Chelsea and Brazilian international Oscar.&nbsp; A crowd of about 40,000 is expected, Soccer News said, hailing a return to a semblance of normality for Chinese football.

China once had a reputation for spending vast amounts of money on transfers and salaries for famous foreign players and coaches, but those days are long gone and Oscar is one of the few stars left.

President Xi Jinping wants his country to one day host and even win a World Cup, but the national men's side languish in 81st in the FIFA rankings.

Chinese football is also in the grip of another major corruption scandal which has seen several leading administrators placed under investigation, including Chinese Football Association head Chen Xuyuan.

Former national coach and Premier League player Li Tie is also under investigation.

Numerous clubs have also folded in recent years, notably then-CSL champions Jiangsu Suning in 2021, as Chinese football went from boom to bust.

Despite all the issues confronting the game in the country and enduring disappointment with the national team, fans are relishing being back in stadiums again without any Covid restrictions.

"I haven't watched a game live for three years and can't hold back," The Paper in Shanghai quoted one supporter as saying. "Last season there were a few away games that sold tickets, but because it was inconvenient to get out of Beijing, I didn't go anywhere."

The CSL has 16 teams and concludes in November.

The new Chinese Super League season kicks off on Saturday after three years of Covid controls with tickets reportedly selling out in just five minutes for the biggest match of the opening weekend.

The new Chinese Super League season kicks off on Saturday after three years of Covid controls with tickets reportedly selling out in just five minutes for the biggest match of the opening weekend. The remodelled Workers' Stadium in the capital will stage the opening ceremony and a clash between hosts Beijing Guoan and Meizhou Hakka, one of four games on Saturday to get the campaign underway. After restrictions placed on Chinese football since the Covid pandemic, including games in secure "bubbles" and limits on attendances, fans will be able to see their beloved teams home and away again. ALSO READ: Barcelona Open: Rafael Nadal opts out with hip injury ahead of French Open The state-run Global Times reported there will be a capacity 68,000 crowd to watch title-contenders Beijing play Meizhou and said that tickets sold out in five minutes when they went on sale on Thursday. The newspaper said it will be the first match since the stadium underwent a vast rebuild and called it "the perfect location for the start of a new era in Chinese soccer". The respected publication Soccer News said that there were also strong ticket sales for other games on the opening weekend. Defending champions Wuhan Three Towns are also in action on Saturday when they host a Shanghai Port side containing the former Chelsea and Brazilian international Oscar. A crowd of about 40,000 is expected, Soccer News said, hailing a return to a semblance of normality for Chinese football. China once had a reputation for spending vast amounts of money on transfers and salaries for famous foreign players and coaches, but those days are long gone and Oscar is one of the few stars left. President Xi Jinping wants his country to one day host and even win a World Cup, but the national men's side languish in 81st in the FIFA rankings. Chinese football is also in the grip of another major corruption scandal which has seen several leading administrators placed under investigation, including Chinese Football Association head Chen Xuyuan. Former national coach and Premier League player Li Tie is also under investigation. Numerous clubs have also folded in recent years, notably then-CSL champions Jiangsu Suning in 2021, as Chinese football went from boom to bust. Despite all the issues confronting the game in the country and enduring disappointment with the national team, fans are relishing being back in stadiums again without any Covid restrictions. "I haven't watched a game live for three years and can't hold back," The Paper in Shanghai quoted one supporter as saying. "Last season there were a few away games that sold tickets, but because it was inconvenient to get out of Beijing, I didn't go anywhere." The CSL has 16 teams and concludes in November.

Tickets sell out in 'five minutes' as Chinese Super League season set to kick off on weekend

The next two rounds of the Chinese Super League have been postponed until the end of September as the competition continues to be impacted by China's efforts to tackle COVID-19 outbreaks.

Organisers announced nine matches due to be played on Sunday and Monday in the 17th round have been rescheduled for Sept. 24 and 25 while games in the 18th round, which were to be held on Sept. 23 and 24, will now be played on Sept. 29 and 30.

Matches in the 19th and 20th rounds have been postponed until further notice.

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The Chinese Super League reverted to a home-and-away format at the start of August. But the government's zero-COVID policy of stamping out every outbreak with frequent lockdowns has thrown the schedule into disarray.

Prior to the latest changes, 15 matches had been postponed and rescheduled since play resumed on Aug. 5.

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Wuhan Three Towns currently sit on top of the 18-team Chinese Super League standings with 44 points from 16 games, four more than defending champions Shandong Taishan, who have played one match more than the league leaders.

The next two rounds of the Chinese Super League have been postponed until the end of September as the competition continues to be impacted by China's efforts to tackle COVID-19 outbreaks.

The next two rounds of the Chinese Super League have been postponed until the end of September as the competition continues to be impacted by China's efforts to tackle COVID-19 outbreaks. Organisers announced nine matches due to be played on Sunday and Monday in the 17th round have been rescheduled for Sept. 24 and 25 while games in the 18th round, which were to be held on Sept. 23 and 24, will now be played on Sept. 29 and 30. Matches in the 19th and 20th rounds have been postponed until further notice. Also Read: Former England skipper David Beckham lines up in snaking queue to pay respects to Queen Elizabeth II The Chinese Super League reverted to a home-and-away format at the start of August. But the government's zero-COVID policy of stamping out every outbreak with frequent lockdowns has thrown the schedule into disarray. Prior to the latest changes, 15 matches had been postponed and rescheduled since play resumed on Aug. 5. Also Read: ‘Messi changed a generation’- Dani Alves picks the Argentine over Pele as best player in history Wuhan Three Towns currently sit on top of the 18-team Chinese Super League standings with 44 points from 16 games, four more than defending champions Shandong Taishan, who have played one match more than the league leaders.

More Chinese Super League matches delayed due to COVID-19 curbs

Rafa Benitez has left Chinese Super League side Dalian Pro, with the Spaniard saying on Saturday that the COVID-19 pandemic was a factor in his decision.

The former Liverpool and Real Madrid head coach was hired on a lucrative contract worth a reported 12 million pounds ($16 million) per year after he left Newcastle United in 2019.

"Unfortunately, like so many things in the last year, COVID-19 has changed our lives and our projects. From today, both my coaching staff and I will sadly no longer be coaching Dalian," Benitez said in a statement.

"The pandemic is still here, for all of us, and supporting our families has been a priority when making this decision."

Dalian failed to qualify for the Super League's Championship stage last season, which was affected by the pandemic, finishing seventh in their eight-team group. But they secured their top flight status in the relegation playoffs.

Benitez said he hoped he had left behind a vision for the club to build on.

"I'm convinced we have left a structure and a methodology that will allow the project to go ahead successfully," the 60-year-old said.

"The first team has been rejuvenated and the foundations have been laid for the future, from the grassroots schools to the top."

Rafa Benitez has left Chinese Super League side Dalian Pro, with the Spaniard saying on Saturday that the COVID-19 pandemic was a factor in his decision. The former Liverpool and Real Madrid head coach was hired on a lucrative contract worth a reported 12 million pounds ($16 million) per year after he left Newcastle United in 2019.

Rafa Benitez has left Chinese Super League side Dalian Pro, with the Spaniard saying on Saturday that the COVID-19 pandemic was a factor in his decision. The former Liverpool and Real Madrid head coach was hired on a lucrative contract worth a reported 12 million pounds ($16 million) per year after he left Newcastle United in 2019. "Unfortunately, like so many things in the last year, COVID-19 has changed our lives and our projects. From today, both my coaching staff and I will sadly no longer be coaching Dalian," Benitez said in a statement. "The pandemic is still here, for all of us, and supporting our families has been a priority when making this decision." Dalian failed to qualify for the Super League's Championship stage last season, which was affected by the pandemic, finishing seventh in their eight-team group. But they secured their top flight status in the relegation playoffs. Benitez said he hoped he had left behind a vision for the club to build on. "I'm convinced we have left a structure and a methodology that will allow the project to go ahead successfully," the 60-year-old said. "The first team has been rejuvenated and the foundations have been laid for the future, from the grassroots schools to the top."

Benitez leaves Chinese side Dalian citing difficulties due to COVID-19

The Chinese Super League season will begin on July 25 after the coronavirus pandemic delayed it by five months, the country's football association said on Wednesday.

The 16-team competition, which had been originally due to kick off in February, will be split into two groups, one in the northeastern city of Dalian and the other in Suzhou, near Shanghai, the China Football Association (CFA) said.

It is a major boost for sport in China and another sign of life returning to normality in the country where COVID-19 emerged late last year before spreading globally.

The CFA said the league would "strictly abide by the requirements of national epidemic prevention work".

The CSL, which has drawn international interest in recent years by luring big-name players and coaches on world-leading wages, had been scheduled to start on February 22.

However, it became one of the first sporting victims of the coronavirus in January when the new season was indefinitely postponed.

The Chinese Super League season will begin on July 25 after the coronavirus pandemic delayed it by five months, the country's football association said on Wednesday.

The Chinese Super League season will begin on July 25 after the coronavirus pandemic delayed it by five months, the country's football association said on Wednesday. The 16-team competition, which had been originally due to kick off in February, will be split into two groups, one in the northeastern city of Dalian and the other in Suzhou, near Shanghai, the China Football Association (CFA) said. It is a major boost for sport in China and another sign of life returning to normality in the country where COVID-19 emerged late last year before spreading globally. The CFA said the league would "strictly abide by the requirements of national epidemic prevention work". The CSL, which has drawn international interest in recent years by luring big-name players and coaches on world-leading wages, had been scheduled to start on February 22. However, it became one of the first sporting victims of the coronavirus in January when the new season was indefinitely postponed.

Chinese Super League football season to begin July 25

The future of Chennai Super League (CSL) has gone for a toss after the recent outbreak of coronavirus in Beijing, that has “complicated” the plans to start the postponed league of China. A medical expert advising the Chinese soccer association has said that with more than 180 infections recorded in just over a week, the future of CSL is under discussion.&nbsp;

The CSL was scheduled to start in February but has been postponed indefinitely due to COVID-19. The recent outbreak could cause further delays. Zhang Wenhong, an infectious disease specialist told state television that a postponement of CSL could happen.

“The schedule is still under discussion because the pandemic just re-surged in Beijing,” Zhang said.

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“The potential coronavirus transmissions from Beijing make it more complicated. I think CSL leaders are concerned about that and will keep changing the timetable.”

Zhang further said that China unlike European countries where football leagues have restarted is keeping a cautious approach and want to keep cases at near zero.

“European countries have made the decision to restart, because they believe ... if they can keep coronavirus cases under control and the medical system is working well, it will be okay to restart the games,” he said.

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“In China, however, our target is to keep the cases at near zero, so we are much more prudent and we still need more time.”

However, the director of the Shanghai Administration of Sports recently said that CSL could resume in July given “everything goes well”. The COVID-19 shutdown has had a massive impact on Chinese football, financially, with many clubs folding under pressure, including CSL club Tianjin Tianhai.

The future of Chennai Super League (CSL) has gone for a toss after the recent outbreak of coronavirus in Beijing, that has “complicated” the plans to start the postponed league of China.

The future of Chennai Super League (CSL) has gone for a toss after the recent outbreak of coronavirus in Beijing, that has “complicated” the plans to start the postponed league of China. A medical expert advising the Chinese soccer association has said that with more than 180 infections recorded in just over a week, the future of CSL is under discussion. The CSL was scheduled to start in February but has been postponed indefinitely due to COVID-19. The recent outbreak could cause further delays. Zhang Wenhong, an infectious disease specialist told state television that a postponement of CSL could happen. “The schedule is still under discussion because the pandemic just re-surged in Beijing,” Zhang said. ALSO READ: Juventus supremacy under threat as Serie A returns “The potential coronavirus transmissions from Beijing make it more complicated. I think CSL leaders are concerned about that and will keep changing the timetable.” Zhang further said that China unlike European countries where football leagues have restarted is keeping a cautious approach and want to keep cases at near zero. “European countries have made the decision to restart, because they believe ... if they can keep coronavirus cases under control and the medical system is working well, it will be okay to restart the games,” he said. ALSO READ: Mourinho meets familiar foes Man Utd as Liverpool resume title hunt “In China, however, our target is to keep the cases at near zero, so we are much more prudent and we still need more time.” However, the director of the Shanghai Administration of Sports recently said that CSL could resume in July given “everything goes well”. The COVID-19 shutdown has had a massive impact on Chinese football, financially, with many clubs folding under pressure, including CSL club Tianjin Tianhai.

Chinese Super League resumption in doubt after Beijing COVID-19 outbreak

The coronavirus-delayed Chinese Super League (CSL) season is scheduled to begin in late June or early July, a club chairman says.

Suspended leagues across the world, including in Europe, will be watching the CSL with interest as an indicator of the challenges they face in relaunching their own competitions.

The campaign was supposed to start on February 22 but was indefinitely postponed by the pandemic, which emerged in China in December before spreading worldwide.

"Based on the assessment of the current situation, the new season will start at the end of June or beginning of July," said Guangzhou R&amp;F chairman Huang Shenghua, according to state media.

Huang said that the season will be able to take place in full with each team playing the alloted 30 matches.

The media reports did not indicate whether a formal announcement was expected from the Chinese Football Association.

China says that it has curbed coronavirus at home but is now concerned about a second wave of imported infections from people entering the country from overseas.

Marouane Fellaini, the former Manchester United midfielder, is the only known coronavirus case in the CSL.

He was released from hospital last week and is under further observation, although he was not seriously ill.

The coronavirus-delayed Chinese Super League (CSL) season is scheduled to begin in late June or early July, a club chairman says. Suspended leagues across the world, including in Europe, will be watching the CSL with interest as an indicator of the challenges they face in relaunching their own competitions.

The coronavirus-delayed Chinese Super League (CSL) season is scheduled to begin in late June or early July, a club chairman says. Suspended leagues across the world, including in Europe, will be watching the CSL with interest as an indicator of the challenges they face in relaunching their own competitions. The campaign was supposed to start on February 22 but was indefinitely postponed by the pandemic, which emerged in China in December before spreading worldwide. "Based on the assessment of the current situation, the new season will start at the end of June or beginning of July," said Guangzhou R&F chairman Huang Shenghua, according to state media. Huang said that the season will be able to take place in full with each team playing the alloted 30 matches. The media reports did not indicate whether a formal announcement was expected from the Chinese Football Association. China says that it has curbed coronavirus at home but is now concerned about a second wave of imported infections from people entering the country from overseas. Marouane Fellaini, the former Manchester United midfielder, is the only known coronavirus case in the CSL. He was released from hospital last week and is under further observation, although he was not seriously ill.

Chinese Super League to start by July: Club chairman

Chinese Super League (CSL) players were under growing pressure Tuesday to take a pay cut in line with the likes of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, as coronavirus hits football hard.

The CSL has some of the best-paid coaches and players in the world with Shanghai SIPG's Brazilian attacking midfielder Oscar reportedly earning nearly $30 million a year.

However, while many CSL players have donated masks and other equipment in the fight against the pandemic, which has caused all football to stop, there is no unified response.

The CSL season was supposed to begin on February 22 but was indefinitely postponed because of the outbreak, which began in China in December before spreading worldwide.&nbsp;

The campaign is unlikely to begin before late May at the earliest even though China says that the number of locally transmitted infections and deaths has dwindled.

State-run Xinhua news agency published a lengthy article debating whether CSL clubs should follow Messi's Barcelona and Ronaldo's Juventus in temporarily cutting salaries by as much as 70 percent.

Bayern Munich's players have also agreed to take a pay cut, as have those at other clubs in the Bundesliga, while a similar argument is raging in the English Premier League.

A video conference involving CSL clubs on Thursday will likely see salary cuts discussed, the Beijing News said.

Other media went further, saying that a salary reduction will definitely be broached in Chinese Football Association (CFA) talks this week.&nbsp;

Xinhua cited online polls of fans showing that the overwhelming majority &nbsp;-- in one instance 90 percent of respondents -- were in favour a pay cut.

But it noted that some fans are against reducing salaries because, unlike in suspended European leagues, CSL teams are already in training for the new season even though it has no start date.

Xinhua quoted one CSL club as being "inclined to cut pay" but is awaiting guidance from the CFA and FIFA.

"All clubs are watching, the problem is that no one wants to be the first," the news agency cited another as saying.

An opinion piece in the Oriental Sports Daily argued that with almost all industries badly affected by coronavirus, it was unfair to single out footballers.

"Many people (in China) are very resentful of Chinese football, saying that these people have taken so much money... and should use their salaries to pay more to scientists and doctors, but this is a misunderstanding," wrote Ge Aiping.

"I haven't seen any news of a Chinese Super League player who proposed a voluntary pay cut.

"(But) money is not easy to earn and if you want to give it out, you really need to struggle with yourself."

Chinese football sprang to prominence in recent years by dishing out world-leading wages to foreign players and coaches, but the CFA has since reined in spending.

Chinese Super League (CSL) players were under growing pressure Tuesday to take a pay cut in line with the likes of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, as coronavirus hits football hard.

Chinese Super League (CSL) players were under growing pressure Tuesday to take a pay cut in line with the likes of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, as coronavirus hits football hard. The CSL has some of the best-paid coaches and players in the world with Shanghai SIPG's Brazilian attacking midfielder Oscar reportedly earning nearly $30 million a year. However, while many CSL players have donated masks and other equipment in the fight against the pandemic, which has caused all football to stop, there is no unified response. The CSL season was supposed to begin on February 22 but was indefinitely postponed because of the outbreak, which began in China in December before spreading worldwide. The campaign is unlikely to begin before late May at the earliest even though China says that the number of locally transmitted infections and deaths has dwindled. State-run Xinhua news agency published a lengthy article debating whether CSL clubs should follow Messi's Barcelona and Ronaldo's Juventus in temporarily cutting salaries by as much as 70 percent. Bayern Munich's players have also agreed to take a pay cut, as have those at other clubs in the Bundesliga, while a similar argument is raging in the English Premier League. A video conference involving CSL clubs on Thursday will likely see salary cuts discussed, the Beijing News said. Other media went further, saying that a salary reduction will definitely be broached in Chinese Football Association (CFA) talks this week. Xinhua cited online polls of fans showing that the overwhelming majority -- in one instance 90 percent of respondents -- were in favour a pay cut. But it noted that some fans are against reducing salaries because, unlike in suspended European leagues, CSL teams are already in training for the new season even though it has no start date. Xinhua quoted one CSL club as being "inclined to cut pay" but is awaiting guidance from the CFA and FIFA. "All clubs are watching, the problem is that no one wants to be the first," the news agency cited another as saying. An opinion piece in the Oriental Sports Daily argued that with almost all industries badly affected by coronavirus, it was unfair to single out footballers. "Many people (in China) are very resentful of Chinese football, saying that these people have taken so much money... and should use their salaries to pay more to scientists and doctors, but this is a misunderstanding," wrote Ge Aiping. "I haven't seen any news of a Chinese Super League player who proposed a voluntary pay cut. "(But) money is not easy to earn and if you want to give it out, you really need to struggle with yourself." Chinese football sprang to prominence in recent years by dishing out world-leading wages to foreign players and coaches, but the CFA has since reined in spending.

Chinese football agonises over wage cuts in face of coronavirus

Former Manchester United player Marouane Fellaini tests positive of the novel coronavirus. He currently plays for Shandong Luneng in Chinese Super League (CSL).&nbsp;

The club released a statement telling about Fellaini's test.

Fellaini has become the first player from CSL to be tested positive. He has a normal temperature and is feeling fine, Shandong said, but "is under observation and having treatment at a designated medical facility".

"The club will do its best... to help in the treatment and recovery of the player."

Fellaini joins the list of high profile footballers list who have been affected by the novel coronavirus.&nbsp;

Earlier, Juventus forward Paulo Dybala had finally admitted that he had been tested positive for the novel coronavirus.&nbsp;

Dybala took to twitter to make this announcement. In his tweet, he said that both he and his partner Oriana Sabatini were tested positive and the couple is currently in perfect condition as of now.

Milan legend Paolo Maldini was tested positive. The news was revealed by AC Milan. They tested Paolo on Saturday. His son, Daniel Maldini who is a striker in Milan's youth team tested positive of the global pandemic. Daniel was seen training with the first team a few weeks ago.&nbsp;

Former Manchester United player Marouane Fellaini tests positive of the novel coronavirus. He currently plays for Shandong Luneng in Chinese Super League (CSL). The club released a statement telling about Fellaini's test.

Former Manchester United player Marouane Fellaini tests positive of the novel coronavirus. He currently plays for Shandong Luneng in Chinese Super League (CSL). The club released a statement telling about Fellaini's test. Fellaini has become the first player from CSL to be tested positive. He has a normal temperature and is feeling fine, Shandong said, but "is under observation and having treatment at a designated medical facility". "The club will do its best... to help in the treatment and recovery of the player." Fellaini joins the list of high profile footballers list who have been affected by the novel coronavirus. Earlier, Juventus forward Paulo Dybala had finally admitted that he had been tested positive for the novel coronavirus. Dybala took to twitter to make this announcement. In his tweet, he said that both he and his partner Oriana Sabatini were tested positive and the couple is currently in perfect condition as of now. Milan legend Paolo Maldini was tested positive. The news was revealed by AC Milan. They tested Paolo on Saturday. His son, Daniel Maldini who is a striker in Milan's youth team tested positive of the global pandemic. Daniel was seen training with the first team a few weeks ago.

Former Manchester United player Marouane Fellaini tests positive for coronavirus

The coronavirus fear hits English Premier League as Manchester United's January signing Odion Ighalo has been training away from the club's facilities in a preventive measure from coronavirus.&nbsp;

According to British media reports, the 30-year-old landed in Manchester from the novel virus-hit city of Shanghai on January 31 (final day of transfer deadline) following a loan deal signed by the Red Devils from China Super League club Shanghai Greenland Shenhua.&nbsp;

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The Nigerian player has still not trained with the main team ever since his arrival, he is training in a separate facility away from the club's Carrington training centre. He went through 14-day quarantine period.&nbsp;

The former Watford star has been training in the GB Taekwondo Headquarters in Manchester under a personal trainer. The training facility is near their rivals Manchester City's ground.&nbsp;

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Last time Odion Ighalo played a competitive match was back on December 6, 2019.&nbsp;

The British government called the novel coronavirus a "serious and imminent threat", and said anyone with the disease can now be forcibly quarantined if they are deemed a threat to public health. There are nine confirmed cases in Britain.

China on Friday confirmed 116 more deaths due to coronavirus with the death toll rising to 1,483 with as many as 4,823 new cases.

According to the health ministry, 64,600 people have now been infected with the virus nationwide.

The coronavirus fear hits English Premier League as Manchester United's January signing Odion Ighalo has been training away from the club's facilities in a preventive measure from coronavirus.

The coronavirus fear hits English Premier League as Manchester United's January signing Odion Ighalo has been training away from the club's facilities in a preventive measure from coronavirus. According to British media reports, the 30-year-old landed in Manchester from the novel virus-hit city of Shanghai on January 31 (final day of transfer deadline) following a loan deal signed by the Red Devils from China Super League club Shanghai Greenland Shenhua. 🙏🏾 pic.twitter.com/WRco9H1519 — Odion Jude Ighalo (@ighalojude) February 4, 2020 × The Nigerian player has still not trained with the main team ever since his arrival, he is training in a separate facility away from the club's Carrington training centre. He went through 14-day quarantine period. The former Watford star has been training in the GB Taekwondo Headquarters in Manchester under a personal trainer. The training facility is near their rivals Manchester City's ground. 💦💪🏾 pic.twitter.com/EqKq3ANZ1J — Odion Jude Ighalo (@ighalojude) February 11, 2020 × Last time Odion Ighalo played a competitive match was back on December 6, 2019. The British government called the novel coronavirus a "serious and imminent threat", and said anyone with the disease can now be forcibly quarantined if they are deemed a threat to public health. There are nine confirmed cases in Britain. China on Friday confirmed 116 more deaths due to coronavirus with the death toll rising to 1,483 with as many as 4,823 new cases. According to the health ministry, 64,600 people have now been infected with the virus nationwide.

Manchester United newbie trained away from club facilities citing coronavirus fears

From Nicolas Pepe to Cedric Bakambu, top five transfers featuring African players

Manchester United confirmed the departure of midfielder Marouane Fellaini to Chinese Super League side Shandong Luneng on Friday, marking the end of the Belgium international's chequered career at the Premier League team.

United did not provide financial details of the transfer in a short statement where they thanked the 31-year-old for his services in five-and-a-half seasons at the club.

Fellaini's arrival in 2013 as a $35.99 million&nbsp;signing by his former Everton boss David Moyes was hardly greeted with enthusiasm by United fans, already underwhelmed by the choice of the successor to Alex Ferguson.

The tall midfielder was used as an auxiliary striker at times by former United managers Louis van Gaal and Jose Mourinho but has been out of favour under interim boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

Fellaini, who signed a two-year deal with United until 2020 in June, departs having made 177 appearances in all competitions for the Old Trafford club.

He helped them win the FA Cup, League Cup and UEFA Europa League trophies. Fellaini's move brings an end to more than a decade playing in England, where he first signed with Everton from Belgian side Standard Liege in 2008.

Manchester United confirmed the departure of midfielder Marouane Fellaini to Chinese Super League side Shandong Luneng on Friday, marking the end of the Belgium international's chequered career at the Premier League team.

Manchester United confirmed the departure of midfielder Marouane Fellaini to Chinese Super League side Shandong Luneng on Friday, marking the end of the Belgium international's chequered career at the Premier League team. United did not provide financial details of the transfer in a short statement where they thanked the 31-year-old for his services in five-and-a-half seasons at the club. Fellaini's arrival in 2013 as a $35.99 million signing by his former Everton boss David Moyes was hardly greeted with enthusiasm by United fans, already underwhelmed by the choice of the successor to Alex Ferguson. The tall midfielder was used as an auxiliary striker at times by former United managers Louis van Gaal and Jose Mourinho but has been out of favour under interim boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Fellaini, who signed a two-year deal with United until 2020 in June, departs having made 177 appearances in all competitions for the Old Trafford club. He helped them win the FA Cup, League Cup and UEFA Europa League trophies. Fellaini's move brings an end to more than a decade playing in England, where he first signed with Everton from Belgian side Standard Liege in 2008.

Manchester United confirm Marouane Fellaini move to China's Shandong Luneng

Chinese Super League giants Chongqing Dangdai Lifan have denied move for Andres Iniesta. Barcelona captain Andres Iniesta announced recently that he will leave the club at the end of the season.

He has spent all his senior career at Camp Nou and has lifted 32 trophies for FC Barcelona.

From past few months, there were speculations that 33-year old might leave Barca and some Spanish media reported that he will move to a elite club Chongqing Dangdai Lifan of Chinese Super League.

The Chinese club also said that Iniesta wouldn't be joining "as a player" but left the door open to future cooperation with the midfielder, who has promotional and marketing links with the city.

"Our club will never violate the development prospects of Chinese football and we are determined to make due contributions to the healthy development of Chinese football," a statement said.

It added: "The other sports industry sections of our club's controlling shareholder have in-depth cooperation with Mr. Iniesta in sports brokerage, sports marketing, and youth training and education.

"We don't rule out that in the future there may be more in-depth cooperation between the two sides in the Chinese market, but this does not mean that Mr. Iniesta will join the club as a player."

Spanish media reported that the Barcelona captain could now be headed for Japan or Australia.

Chinese Super League giants Chongqing Dangdai Lifan have denied move for Andres Iniesta

Chinese Super League giants Chongqing Dangdai Lifan have denied move for Andres Iniesta. Barcelona captain Andres Iniesta announced recently that he will leave the club at the end of the season. He has spent all his senior career at Camp Nou and has lifted 32 trophies for FC Barcelona. From past few months, there were speculations that 33-year old might leave Barca and some Spanish media reported that he will move to a elite club Chongqing Dangdai Lifan of Chinese Super League. The Chinese club also said that Iniesta wouldn't be joining "as a player" but left the door open to future cooperation with the midfielder, who has promotional and marketing links with the city. "Our club will never violate the development prospects of Chinese football and we are determined to make due contributions to the healthy development of Chinese football," a statement said. It added: "The other sports industry sections of our club's controlling shareholder have in-depth cooperation with Mr. Iniesta in sports brokerage, sports marketing, and youth training and education. "We don't rule out that in the future there may be more in-depth cooperation between the two sides in the Chinese market, but this does not mean that Mr. Iniesta will join the club as a player." Spanish media reported that the Barcelona captain could now be headed for Japan or Australia.

Chinese Super League club Chongqing Lifan denies Iniesta move

The backbone of FC Barcelona, Andres Iniesta has announced on Friday that he will leave the&nbsp;club at the end of the season.

Barcelona captain Iniesta has spent all of his senior career at Camp Nou and has lifted 31 trophies and it is expected that the count will increase to 32 as Barca will clinch the Liga title on Sunday at Deportivo La Coruna.

From past few months, there were speculations that 33-year old might leave Barca and Spanish media reported that he will move to Chinese Super League.

On Friday, Iniesta addressed a press conference and with teary eyes, he said that he will leave Barcelona. The Spain international broke down in tears at Barcelona's training ground with all his teammates present and a packed press room burst into applause when he finished his opening statement.

As per the media reports, Iniesta will join a CSL giant Chongqing Dangdai Lifan.

Recently, Barcelona won the Spanish King's Cup and Iniesta was crying in the concluding minutes.

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&nbsp;

Andres Iniesta has announced on Friday that he will leave the club at the end of the season

The backbone of FC Barcelona, Andres Iniesta has announced on Friday that he will leave the club at the end of the season. Barcelona captain Iniesta has spent all of his senior career at Camp Nou and has lifted 31 trophies and it is expected that the count will increase to 32 as Barca will clinch the Liga title on Sunday at Deportivo La Coruna. From past few months, there were speculations that 33-year old might leave Barca and Spanish media reported that he will move to Chinese Super League. On Friday, Iniesta addressed a press conference and with teary eyes, he said that he will leave Barcelona. The Spain international broke down in tears at Barcelona's training ground with all his teammates present and a packed press room burst into applause when he finished his opening statement. As per the media reports, Iniesta will join a CSL giant Chongqing Dangdai Lifan. Recently, Barcelona won the Spanish King's Cup and Iniesta was crying in the concluding minutes. ×

Watch: End of an era as Iniesta says 'goodbye' to FC Barcelona

China&#39;s top-flight&nbsp;soccer&nbsp;league&nbsp;has signed a&nbsp;deal&nbsp;with a local developer to produce&nbsp;online&nbsp;soccer&nbsp;games&nbsp;in its first&nbsp;foray&nbsp;into gaming as it searches for new sources of revenue.

The&nbsp;Chinese&nbsp;Super&nbsp;League&nbsp;(CSL) said on Monday that it had signed a six-year partnership with Beijing-based developer Crazy Sports to develop&nbsp;soccer-related&nbsp;games&nbsp;based on 16 CSL teams and the&nbsp;league&nbsp;through 2022.

Fans of&nbsp;soccer&nbsp;video&nbsp;games&nbsp;such as Electronic Arts Inc&#39;s top-selling FIFA franchise, have been closely watching the CSL&#39;s gaming plans as its deep-pocketed teams have recruited global stars such as Carlos Tevez, Oscar and Hulk in recent months.

EA in June poured cold water on rumors that the CSL would feature in &quot;FIFA 18&quot;, the latest version of the franchise, citing licensing issues, according to sports website goal.com. EA hasdeals with&nbsp;leagues around the world including the English Premier&nbsp;League&nbsp;and Italian Serie A.

Crazy Sports said the CSL&nbsp;deal, that would give it non-exclusive rights, was worth over 100 million yuan ($15.02 million). Streaming revenue from the CSL-themed&nbsp;games&nbsp;could reach 1 billion yuan in 2020, the firm&#39;s chief executive Peng Xitao said.

&quot;The&nbsp;Chinese&nbsp;Super&nbsp;League&nbsp;is dedicated to expanding the influence and commercial value of theleague. The development of CSL-themed&nbsp;games&nbsp;is a new revenue growth point for the&nbsp;league,&quot; said CSL&#39;s chairman Ma Chengquan.

They said that they would also make the&nbsp;games&#39; content accessible to overseas gamers through European gaming partners From the Bench and&nbsp;Soccer&nbsp;Manager.

Crazy Sports, which also previously ran an&nbsp;online&nbsp;lottery platform through a separate business tie-up until the&nbsp;Chinese&nbsp;government started banning&nbsp;online&nbsp;lottery sales in 2015, said it hoped to convert its over 100 million sports lottery users to play the CSL&nbsp;games.

China&#39;s&nbsp;soccer&nbsp;industry has lured in billions of yuan investment since President Xi Jinping, a self-professed&nbsp;soccer&nbsp;fan who repeatedly expressed desire for China to host a World Cup and eventually win one, came to power in 2012.

A five-year&nbsp;deal&nbsp;to broadcast the&nbsp;games&nbsp;in China was sold at a record-high 8 billion yuan in 2015 to China Sports Media.

The?Chinese?Super?League?(CSL) said on Monday that it had signed a six-year partnership with Beijing-based developer Crazy Sports to develop?soccer-related?games?based on 16 CSL teams and the?league?through 2022

China's top-flight soccer league has signed a deal with a local developer to produce online soccer games in its first foray into gaming as it searches for new sources of revenue. The Chinese Super League (CSL) said on Monday that it had signed a six-year partnership with Beijing-based developer Crazy Sports to develop soccer-related games based on 16 CSL teams and the league through 2022. Fans of soccer video games such as Electronic Arts Inc's top-selling FIFA franchise, have been closely watching the CSL's gaming plans as its deep-pocketed teams have recruited global stars such as Carlos Tevez, Oscar and Hulk in recent months. EA in June poured cold water on rumors that the CSL would feature in "FIFA 18", the latest version of the franchise, citing licensing issues, according to sports website goal.com. EA hasdeals with leagues around the world including the English Premier League and Italian Serie A. Crazy Sports said the CSL deal, that would give it non-exclusive rights, was worth over 100 million yuan ($15.02 million). Streaming revenue from the CSL-themed games could reach 1 billion yuan in 2020, the firm's chief executive Peng Xitao said. "The Chinese Super League is dedicated to expanding the influence and commercial value of theleague. The development of CSL-themed games is a new revenue growth point for the league," said CSL's chairman Ma Chengquan. They said that they would also make the games' content accessible to overseas gamers through European gaming partners From the Bench and Soccer Manager. Crazy Sports, which also previously ran an online lottery platform through a separate business tie-up until the Chinese government started banning online lottery sales in 2015, said it hoped to convert its over 100 million sports lottery users to play the CSL games. China's soccer industry has lured in billions of yuan investment since President Xi Jinping, a self-professed soccer fan who repeatedly expressed desire for China to host a World Cup and eventually win one, came to power in 2012. A five-year deal to broadcast the games in China was sold at a record-high 8 billion yuan in 2015 to China Sports Media.

Chinese Super League plots foray into online soccer games

England captain Wayne Rooney is unlikely to leave Manchester United next week and is surprised by boss Jos&eacute; Mourinho&rsquo;s claim he could do so, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/football/2017/feb/22/wayne-rooney-set-to-leave-manchester-united-summer-if-first-team-absence-continues">The Guardian</a> reported today (February 23).

Rooney, who was still not fit enough to join his team for their Europa League clash with Saint-Etienne yesterday, is determined to see the season out, the Guardian report claimed. The rumours come even as his agent, Paul Stretford, has flown to China to see if he can negotiate a deal for his client to leave United, most likely at the end of the season.

The 31-year-old is unlikely to remain at Old Trafford unless United actively tell him he can depart or there is a lucrative last-minute offer from China&rsquo;s Super League before its window closes on Tuesday.

There has been speculation that Rooney, who is no longer an integral part of the United side under Mourinho, could eventually leave for the mega-rich Chinese Super League.

Asked if Rooney would leave for the Chinese Super League before the transfer window closes next week, Mourinho had said, &quot;&ldquo;You have to ask him. Of course I can&rsquo;t guarantee he will still be here next season. I cannot guarantee that I&rsquo;m here next week, how can I guarantee that a player is here next season? What I can guarantee is that, if one day Wayne leaves the club, it is not because I want him to leave the club.

&ldquo;I would never push a legend of this club to another destiny. You have to ask him if he sees himself staying in the club for the rest of his career or sees himself moving. I was very open with you in the answer. I don&rsquo;t want him to leave.&rdquo;

Mourinho&rsquo;s comment caught the player unawares as he has no wish to move on, The Guardian reported, adding that the skipper is unhappy at his lack of regular starts and unless this situation vastly improves before the season ends he will depart in the summer.&nbsp; 
 
Guangzhou Evergrande, Beijing Guoan, Jiangsu Suning and Tianjin Quanjian are said to be among those interested in hiring Rooney.

Meanwhile, asked if he would be fit for Sunday&#39;s English Football League Cup final against Southampton, Mourinho was non-committal, AFP reported.

&quot;I don&#39;t know. This morning was the first time he trained and didn&#39;t even train 100 per cent with the group,&quot; the Portuguese boss told reporters at Saint-Etienne&#39;s Stade Geoffroy-Guichard.

&quot;He is injured, I cannot do miracles at that level,&quot; he said. &quot;Rooney is injured, he (has been) injured for two or three weeks.

&quot;When you don&#39;t have a player, you have others. The team is in a good moment. In the past few months we&#39;ve lost only one game and it was one we could lose as it was a two-legged match,&quot; added Mourinho.

(WION with inputs from Guardian, AFP)

Rumours have been rife that Rooney could eventually leave for the mega-rich Chinese Super League

England captain Wayne Rooney is unlikely to leave Manchester United next week and is surprised by boss José Mourinho’s claim he could do so, The Guardian reported today (February 23). Rooney, who was still not fit enough to join his team for their Europa League clash with Saint-Etienne yesterday, is determined to see the season out, the Guardian report claimed. The rumours come even as his agent, Paul Stretford, has flown to China to see if he can negotiate a deal for his client to leave United, most likely at the end of the season. The 31-year-old is unlikely to remain at Old Trafford unless United actively tell him he can depart or there is a lucrative last-minute offer from China’s Super League before its window closes on Tuesday. There has been speculation that Rooney, who is no longer an integral part of the United side under Mourinho, could eventually leave for the mega-rich Chinese Super League. Asked if Rooney would leave for the Chinese Super League before the transfer window closes next week, Mourinho had said, "“You have to ask him. Of course I can’t guarantee he will still be here next season. I cannot guarantee that I’m here next week, how can I guarantee that a player is here next season? What I can guarantee is that, if one day Wayne leaves the club, it is not because I want him to leave the club. “I would never push a legend of this club to another destiny. You have to ask him if he sees himself staying in the club for the rest of his career or sees himself moving. I was very open with you in the answer. I don’t want him to leave.” Mourinho’s comment caught the player unawares as he has no wish to move on, The Guardian reported, adding that the skipper is unhappy at his lack of regular starts and unless this situation vastly improves before the season ends he will depart in the summer. Guangzhou Evergrande, Beijing Guoan, Jiangsu Suning and Tianjin Quanjian are said to be among those interested in hiring Rooney. Meanwhile, asked if he would be fit for Sunday's English Football League Cup final against Southampton, Mourinho was non-committal, AFP reported. "I don't know. This morning was the first time he trained and didn't even train 100 per cent with the group," the Portuguese boss told reporters at Saint-Etienne's Stade Geoffroy-Guichard. "He is injured, I cannot do miracles at that level," he said. "Rooney is injured, he (has been) injured for two or three weeks. "When you don't have a player, you have others. The team is in a good moment. In the past few months we've lost only one game and it was one we could lose as it was a two-legged match," added Mourinho. (WION with inputs from Guardian, AFP)

Wayne Rooney's Manchester United exit gathers steam, Mourinho adds to rumours

&nbsp;

Nigeria midfielder John Obi Mikel has become the latest big name player to join the Chinese Super League gold rush after leaving Chelsea for Tianjin Teda.

Mikel, who failed to make a single appearance for Antonio Conte&#39;s side this season, had a medical examination in the port city, 130 kilometres from Beijing as the Asian Football Confederation confirmed the deal.

The 29-year-old, who spent more than a decade at Stamford Bridge, was given a free transfer by the London club and will earn $173,432 a week in China, according to local media reports.

After joining Chelsea in 2006, Mikel was part of a squad that won a Champions League crown, two Premier League titles and four FA Cups.

Chinese clubs have made several high-profile signings over the last month with Argentine striker Carlos Tevez moving to Shanghai Shenhua for a reported $87.65 million. Less than a week later, Brazilian midfielder Oscar joined local rivals Shanghai SIPG from Chelsea. Elsewhere in Europe, Serbia midfielder Nemanja Gudelj, moved to Tianjin from Dutch club Ajax.

At the end of December, Cristiano Ronaldo&#39;s agent had said the World Player of the Year had turned down the chance to leave Real Madrid for an unnamed Chinese club for a transfer fee of $315.24 million.

Amid the spending spree, the country&#39;s General Administration of Sport described the excess of some Chinese clubs as &quot;a grave phenomenon&quot;.

(Reuters)

John Obi Mikel has become the latest big name player to join the Chinese Super League

Nigeria midfielder John Obi Mikel has become the latest big name player to join the Chinese Super League gold rush after leaving Chelsea for Tianjin Teda. Mikel, who failed to make a single appearance for Antonio Conte's side this season, had a medical examination in the port city, 130 kilometres from Beijing as the Asian Football Confederation confirmed the deal. The 29-year-old, who spent more than a decade at Stamford Bridge, was given a free transfer by the London club and will earn $173,432 a week in China, according to local media reports. After joining Chelsea in 2006, Mikel was part of a squad that won a Champions League crown, two Premier League titles and four FA Cups. Chinese clubs have made several high-profile signings over the last month with Argentine striker Carlos Tevez moving to Shanghai Shenhua for a reported $87.65 million. Less than a week later, Brazilian midfielder Oscar joined local rivals Shanghai SIPG from Chelsea. Elsewhere in Europe, Serbia midfielder Nemanja Gudelj, moved to Tianjin from Dutch club Ajax. At the end of December, Cristiano Ronaldo's agent had said the World Player of the Year had turned down the chance to leave Real Madrid for an unnamed Chinese club for a transfer fee of $315.24 million. Amid the spending spree, the country's General Administration of Sport described the excess of some Chinese clubs as "a grave phenomenon". (Reuters)

Chelsea's Mikel joins Chinese Super League

New Italian coach Giampiero Ventura hinted today that striker Graziano Pelle could risk his Azzurri place following a recent move to China and gave Mario Balotelli little chance of returning to the national team. 
 
Pelle, 31, scored 30 goals in 81 appearances for Southampton following his arrival from Feyenoord in 2014 and was an integral part of the Italy team that reached the Euro 2016 quarter-finals in France. 
 
But Pelle&#39;s reported 15m Euros (&pound;12.7 million, $16.6 million) move to Shandong Luneng could dent his Italy future if he follows in the footsteps of former Juventus maestro Andrea Pirlo and ex-Bologna star Alessandro Diamanti. 
 
Pirlo&#39;s move to New York City FC and Diamanti&#39;s signing for Guangzhou Evergrande preceded the ends of their respective international careers. 
 
Ventura, officially unveiled as Chelsea manager Antonio Conte&#39;s successor today, said the circumstances surrounding Pelle and those players &quot;could not be compared&quot;. 
 
But he added: &quot;A player has to be strong, psychologically and mentally&quot;, to feature for Italy while playing outside of Europe. 
 
&quot;Diamanti, despite being a quality player, lost it (Italy place) when he went to China.&quot; 
 
Pelle scored twice for Italy in France last month but was one of several players to miss the target in an error-strewn 18-shot penalty shoot-out that Germany won 6-5 to advance to the semi-finals. 
 
Ventura said the striker, at least on paper, remains part of his plans but admitted the long-haul travel could complicate matters. 
 
&quot;I have to consider all the 23 players who were at the Euros because of what they achieved. Plus, there will be many others because we&#39;re moving forward,&quot; he explained. 
 
&quot;As for Pelle, apart from his missed penalty, he had a positive campaign. But China is far away. Let&#39;s see why he moved.&quot; 
 
Balotelli, meanwhile, will have to reignite his troubled club future if he is to have any chance of remaining an Italy international. 
 
Having spent a mediocre last season on loan at AC Milan, Balotelli was told recently by Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp to find a new club. 
 
Ventura said the door would remain open but that the troubled star was &quot;at a crossroads&quot; in his career. 
 
&quot;For me he&#39;s exactly the same as all other players when, a) he plays, and b) he is professional,&quot; added Ventura when asked about Balotelli. 
 
&quot;In terms of his character, he could do much better. The fact he&#39;s not playing at Milan, that Liverpool have abandoned him, means that he is at crossroads. 
 
&quot;The few times that Balotelli has really wanted to be a footballer, he has shown his quality. I have no prejudice, but his football must do the talking.&quot; 
 
A respected tactician, Ventura comes to the post after a five-year spell with Torino. 
 
Tasked with qualifying Italy for the 2018 World Cup in Russia, he now hopes to convince rock-solid Juventus defender Andrea Barzagli to extend his international career. 
 
The sixty-eight-year-old coach also intends to build on Conte&#39;s two-year spell in charge by steering the new generation through the ranks. 
 
&quot;I haven&#39;t spoken to Barzagli yet but if I want to take up where Conte has left off it&#39;s obvious that he would be a crucial player for us,&quot; added Ventura, whose first game in charge is a friendly against beaten Euro 2016 finalists France in Bari on September 1. 
 
&quot;We have a lot of upcoming players and I want to bring them through. But we have to be patient and give them time to come through gradually.&quot; 
 
(AFP)

Graziano Pelle is all set to leave Southampton for Chinese Super League's Shandong Luneng

New Italian coach Giampiero Ventura hinted today that striker Graziano Pelle could risk his Azzurri place following a recent move to China and gave Mario Balotelli little chance of returning to the national team. Pelle, 31, scored 30 goals in 81 appearances for Southampton following his arrival from Feyenoord in 2014 and was an integral part of the Italy team that reached the Euro 2016 quarter-finals in France. But Pelle's reported 15m Euros (£12.7 million, $16.6 million) move to Shandong Luneng could dent his Italy future if he follows in the footsteps of former Juventus maestro Andrea Pirlo and ex-Bologna star Alessandro Diamanti. Pirlo's move to New York City FC and Diamanti's signing for Guangzhou Evergrande preceded the ends of their respective international careers. Ventura, officially unveiled as Chelsea manager Antonio Conte's successor today, said the circumstances surrounding Pelle and those players "could not be compared". But he added: "A player has to be strong, psychologically and mentally", to feature for Italy while playing outside of Europe. "Diamanti, despite being a quality player, lost it (Italy place) when he went to China." Pelle scored twice for Italy in France last month but was one of several players to miss the target in an error-strewn 18-shot penalty shoot-out that Germany won 6-5 to advance to the semi-finals. Ventura said the striker, at least on paper, remains part of his plans but admitted the long-haul travel could complicate matters. "I have to consider all the 23 players who were at the Euros because of what they achieved. Plus, there will be many others because we're moving forward," he explained. "As for Pelle, apart from his missed penalty, he had a positive campaign. But China is far away. Let's see why he moved." Balotelli, meanwhile, will have to reignite his troubled club future if he is to have any chance of remaining an Italy international. Having spent a mediocre last season on loan at AC Milan, Balotelli was told recently by Liverpool coach Jurgen Klopp to find a new club. Ventura said the door would remain open but that the troubled star was "at a crossroads" in his career. "For me he's exactly the same as all other players when, a) he plays, and b) he is professional," added Ventura when asked about Balotelli. "In terms of his character, he could do much better. The fact he's not playing at Milan, that Liverpool have abandoned him, means that he is at crossroads. "The few times that Balotelli has really wanted to be a footballer, he has shown his quality. I have no prejudice, but his football must do the talking." A respected tactician, Ventura comes to the post after a five-year spell with Torino. Tasked with qualifying Italy for the 2018 World Cup in Russia, he now hopes to convince rock-solid Juventus defender Andrea Barzagli to extend his international career. The sixty-eight-year-old coach also intends to build on Conte's two-year spell in charge by steering the new generation through the ranks. "I haven't spoken to Barzagli yet but if I want to take up where Conte has left off it's obvious that he would be a crucial player for us," added Ventura, whose first game in charge is a friendly against beaten Euro 2016 finalists France in Bari on September 1. "We have a lot of upcoming players and I want to bring them through. But we have to be patient and give them time to come through gradually." (AFP)

Italy's Graziano Pelle, Mario Balotelli receive warning

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