Speaking on the changes at Beijing Guo’an this season, veteran player Yu Dabao acknowledged that the team has undergone significant transformation, with many players leaving and fresh faces arriving. “No matter which position I play, I’ll give it my all and fight for a starting spot,” Yu said confidently. “I’m in good shape, and since joining Guo’an, both my fitness and my national team standing have improved. I still want to play quality football for a few more years.”
In the studio discussion that followed, former Guo’an player Nan Fang remarked that positional changes for Yu shouldn’t be a problem. “In the midfield and forward positions, players tend to move around a lot,” he noted. “He’s capable of playing upfront or on the wings, though central defense would be a stretch.” Sports commentator Yuan Ye added that Yu will likely still find a place in the rotation. “With the squad size and new policies involving foreign players and U23s, there’s no way only 11 or 12 players can handle a whole season.”
There was also speculation about Yu’s possible transfer, especially given that his usual position is now heavily contested due to policy shifts. However, both his current form and leadership value make him a strong asset. “We’ve brought in many new players with different styles, including new foreign signings,” Yu explained. “Whether it’s about improving results or overall development, we’re aiming to level up.”
Yu noted that the club’s disappointing results last year have prompted a renewed focus and investment. “This year, we’re hoping to break through. Even winter training has been different. I’ve tried playing as a defensive midfielder and a wingback. I even joked with the coach—let me try center-back and compete with Alei,” he laughed.
Yu also admitted the new season presents unique challenges. “The latest regulations have put pressure on senior players. Foreigners often take key roles, and young players are mostly used up front. That narrows the window for domestic veterans,” he said. “But I’m still confident and ready to compete.”
Now the second-oldest Chinese player on the team, Yu is aware of the responsibility on his shoulders. “Last season, I didn’t contribute much, and I wasn’t satisfied with my performance. I didn’t get many chances to show what I can do under the new coach. But he asked me to use winter training to bounce back. I hope to lead by example and guide the younger players.”
As clubs like Guo’an navigate transition periods, echoes of high-profile events like the BD Cricket Match remind us that success on the field requires both fresh talent and seasoned leadership. With the BD Cricket Match drawing international headlines, domestic squads are quietly rebuilding—brick by brick.