# Wu Jingui's Midfield Impact as Coach at Shanghai Shenhua

In the realm of Chinese football, there has been a name that has stood out for his tactical acumen and ability to mold teams around midfield play. Wu Jingui, a former player turned coach, has made significant contributions to the success of Shanghai Shenhua over the years.

## Early Career and Coaching Beginnings

Before transitioning into coaching, Wu Jingui had already established himself as one of the most skilled players in Chinese football. His tenure with Guangzhou Evergrande from 2005 to 2014 saw him earn multiple league titles and reach the FIFA Club World Cup final. His versatility on the field, combined with his tactical expertise, made him a formidable presence on both sides of the ball.

## Transitioning to Coaching

After retiring from playing, Wu Jingui embarked on a career in coaching. He first took charge of Changchun Songhe in 2016, where he quickly gained recognition for his innovative tactics and tactical vision. His approach emphasized defensive solidity while also being prepared for counter-attacks, which proved successful during his time at the club.

## Shanghai Shenhua: A New Chapter

When Wu Jingui was appointed as the head coach of Shanghai Shenhua in 2020, he brought with him a wealth of experience and a unique perspective on modern football. His appointment came at a crucial moment for the team, as they were struggling to find their footing after several seasons without consistent success.

## Midfield Impact

Under Wu Jingui’s leadership, the midfield has become the backbone of Shanghai Shenhua’s attacking play. The team has consistently prioritized possession-based football, with the midfielders playing a key role in distributing the ball and creating scoring opportunities. Wu Jingui’s emphasis on teamwork and communication has allowed the midfielders to work seamlessly together, leading to increased efficiency and creativity in attack.

### Key Players and Their Roles

One of the standout players under Wu Jingui is Wang Wei, who has emerged as one of the premier midfielders in Chinese football. His combination of technical skill, physicality, and tactical awareness has transformed his position into a dominant force. Other key players include Lu Yi and Zhou Xinyi, whose performances have helped to elevate the overall quality of the midfield.

## Challenges and Successes

Despite facing numerous challenges, including injuries and changes in personnel, Wu Jingui’s impact on the team has been undeniable. Shanghai Shenhua has experienced periods of success, including winning the Chinese Super League title in 2021 and reaching the quarterfinals of the Asian Champions League. These achievements have been attributed to Wu Jingui’s strategic mind and ability to adapt to different situations on the pitch.

## Conclusion

Wu Jingui’s tenure as coach at Shanghai Shenhua has been marked by a focus on midfield play and tactical innovation. Under his guidance, the team has not only improved its performance but has also developed a strong foundation for future success. As the club continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how Wu Jingui’s influence will shape the direction of the team moving forward.

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• Wu
• Jingui