Soccer slump

In stark contrast to the spending spree of previous years, Chinese Super League clubs encountered major money problems in 2021. Eleven of the 16 CSL clubs are now facing financial issues due to a combination of factors－the impact of the pandemic, clubs' huge debts, and the postponement of the 2021 CSL season to accommodate Team China's World Cup qualifiers. Even CSL giant Guangzhou FC is struggling to stay afloat, with the club appointing first-team stalwart Zheng Zhi to the dual role of player-coach in a move widely viewed as a cost-cutting measure. Like many teams, Guangzhou FC is also facing a talent exodus, with the likes of Brazilian-born striker Luo Guofu (aka Aloisio) announcing his departure.