Cao Yunding is one of the most influential figures in Chinese football, and his innovative midfield organization has been hailed as a success story for Shanghai Shenhua.
In 2018, Cao Yunding was appointed as the new coach of Shanghai Shenhua, and he immediately made a bold move to bring in young talent and develop their potential. He brought in several promising players from other clubs, including Zhang Xun and Li Jianhong, who had previously played for Chinese clubs but were not yet ready for senior teams.
The result was immediate: Shenhua quickly became one of the best teams in China, with impressive performances at all levels. They won three consecutive Premier League titles and reached the UEFA Champions League semi-finals in 2019.
However, it wasn't just about winning championships - Cao Yunding also focused on developing the team's youth system and nurturing the next generation of talent. He worked closely with the club's academy coaches and provided them with guidance and support.
One of the key things that set Cao Yunding apart from other coaches was his willingness to invest heavily in training facilities and equipment. He invested millions of yuan into upgrading the stadium, creating a more comfortable and professional environment for players to train in, and investing in modern technology such as virtual reality and artificial intelligence.
In addition to providing financial support, Cao Yunding also worked hard to build a strong connection between the club and its fans. He regularly held press conferences and meetings with fans, and he organized various activities such as charity events and sports competitions.
Overall, Cao Yunding's innovative approach to coaching has paid off for Shanghai Shenhua, and he remains one of the most respected coaches in Chinese football today. His work has helped to transform the club into one of the top teams in China, and he continues to be a driving force behind the development of the sport in China.