According to the Beijing Youth Daily, the national team recently submitted an initial list of 52 players for the top 18 competition to the AFC. Wei Shihao is included in this list, but naturalized player Hou Yongyong did not make it. The list also includes players who have performed outstandingly in the recent CSL matches such as Yang Liyu, Jian Tao, and Han Jiaqi.
As per the AFC’s requirements, teams participating in the top 18 competition need to submit a preliminary list by August 5th, with no limit on the number of players. Therefore, the Chinese Football Association submitted a list of 52 players to the AFC.
The 52-player list has drawn attention to whether Wei Shihao and Hou Yongyong would be included. According to the Beijing Youth Daily, despite being suspended by the Chinese Football Association in the CSL, Wei Shihao still appears on the list. However, Hou Yongyong, who has been performing well in the Norwegian league recently, was not included in this list.
In addition, the list includes players such as Han Jiaqi, Hu Hetao, Cao Yongjing, Jian Tao, and Yang Liyu. Wu Shaocong, who plays abroad, is also not on this list. Currently, naturalized players playing in the CSL, including Alan, Fernandinho, and Jiang Guangtai, are all included in the list of 52 players.
It is understood that the national team will announce the training roster for the two games in September of the top 18 competition around August 17th, with an expected number of about 28 players. Whether Wei Shihao, whose form is uncertain due to his suspension, can participate in the first two rounds of the top 18 competition will be revealed at that time.