Shenhua is one of China's most successful football clubs, having won numerous major trophies throughout their history. However, the club has also faced challenges during its long-standing title race in the Chinese Super League (CSL). This article will explore Shenhua's seasonally-based performance and how it compares to their position in the league.
In the first half of the 2018-2019 season, Shenhua was on the verge of winning the league title but struggled with injuries that limited their chances. The team's season was marred by a number of setbacks including a controversial penalty shootout loss against Guangzhou Evergrande, which ultimately ended their hopes of victory. Despite this setback, Shenhua still managed to finish second in the league, securing promotion to the Premier League.
The second half of the 2018-2019 season saw Shenhua continue to struggle, as they were plagued by injuries and poor form. They suffered from a number of key players leaving the club, including goalkeeper Hanyu Liang, who left due to an injury sustained in training. This led to a significant drop-off in their performances, as they failed to qualify for the quarter-finals of the Chinese Cup.
However, the club continued to fight back and have made some positive changes. In the summer transfer window, Shenhua acquired talented young players such as Lin Yue, who had previously been with Shanghai SIPG, and Guo Kaiyan, who had played for Wuhan FC. These signings helped to rejuvenate the squad and improve their overall performance.
Despite these efforts, Shenhua still faced challenges during the 2019-2020 season. They were unable to secure the coveted title, finishing fourth behind Beijing Guoan. This defeat came after a series of disappointing performances, including a 4-0 loss to Tianjin Tongcheng in the league cup final.
However, the club has not given up hope and continues to work towards improvement. In recent months, they have made several signings, including goalkeeper Zhou Xinbo, who has proven to be a valuable addition to their squad. Additionally, the club has invested heavily in youth development, with plans to introduce new talent into the senior team.
Overall, Shenhua's seasonally-based performance is commendable, despite facing challenges during their title run. The club's resilience and determination have shown that even when things get tough, there is always hope for success. With the right strategy and support, Shenhua can continue to climb the ladder and achieve success in the Chinese Super League.