The Chinese Super League (CSL) has recently announced new rules regarding the appearance of under-23 players. These rules come into effect from the start of the 2021 season and will apply to all matches played by teams in the league.
One of the most significant changes is that players aged between 23 and 26 years old will no longer be allowed to play for their respective clubs if they have not made at least one appearance in the CSL or any other top-tier domestic league. This means that players who have not yet made an appearance in the CSL may face restrictions on their ability to continue playing for their club.
Another change is that teams will only be able to sign up to three under-23 players per match, which is a reduction from four. This is likely intended to prevent teams from signing up too many young players and potentially overloading their squad with inexperienced players.
There are also plans to introduce additional measures to ensure that under-23 players receive adequate training and development opportunities within their clubs. For example, teams will be required to provide training facilities and resources for under-23 players, as well as setting targets for their development and performance.
Overall, these new rules represent a significant shift in the way that the CSL operates, and it remains to be seen how they will affect player recruitment, team composition, and overall competitiveness. However, they do mark a move towards more balanced and sustainable footballing structures, and should help to promote the growth and development of young talent in China.