By Mark Baber
February 18 – Australia national team forward Tim Cahill was released by Chinese Super League’s Shanghai Greenland Shenhua FC on Wednesday as “surplus to requirements,” with Obafemi Martins confirmed he was joining the Shanghai club whilst Paris St-Germain forward Ezequiel Lavezzi has joined Chinese Super League club Hebei China Fortune.
The popular 36-year-old Australian did not hide his disappointment, saying on social media, “I’m very sorry to announce that I have reached an agreement with Shanghai Shenhua to terminate my contract after being told that I’m not part of the new coach Manzano’s plans for the 2016 season having only just signed a new contract in November.”
“This is very sad especially after what I feel I have helped to build in Shanghai Shenhua on and off the park. Just thinking about saying goodbye to my teammates and especially the amazing fans is heart-breaking,” he added.
Meanwhile, 31-year-old Nigerian striker Obafemi Martins confirmed his move from the Seattle Sounders to Shenhua on Twitter, thanking Seattle and saying, “For me it’s now time for a new challenge. After significant reflection, I have decided to join Shanghai Greenland Shenhua FC of the CSL. When I left Nigeria for Italy at the age of 15 with the hopes of a pro career, I put everything on the line. I was immersed in an unknown culture. It may be difficult to understand or relate to, but I’ve grown to appreciate the feeling I get when entering environments where I’m not a proven footballer.
“Seattle will always have a special place in my heart.”
In a further indication the balance of power in world football is undergoing a significant shift, Paris St-Germain forward Ezequiel Lavezzi has joined billionaire Wang Wenxue’s Hebei China Fortune on a two-year deal reported to be worth £23.5 million, with the Argentine international preferring a lucrative move to Hebei to the mooted alternatives of Chelsea and Inter Milan.
The Chinese Super League transfer window remains open until February 26. CSL clubs have spent over £200 million in this transfer window already as the Chinese revolution continues apace, whilst fears about the dramatic economic slow-down in China and possible social unrest appear to have, if anything, galvanised the leadership’s enthusiasm for developing the sport.
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