The East StandNico Yennaris’ naturalisation may just help bring China into the 21st century
- Born in London to an ethnically Chinese mother and Cypriot father, Nico Yennaris’ selection for China national team sparks debate
- Magnitude of this moment cannot be downplayed and signals start of new era for Chinese football
History has been made with Nico Yennaris being called up for the China national squad’s friendly matches against the Philippines and Tajikistan next month.
As one might expect, his selection has drawn debate, if not one-sided keyboard bashing. The Global Times wrote that “for a country with a population of 1.3 billion, naturalising players actually reflects the failure of the country’s soccer programme to nurture and development [sic] its youth”. Strong words.
Yennaris was born in London to an ethnically Chinese mother and a Cypriot father. He was naturalised as a Chinese citizen ahead of the new Super League season and he has given up his British passport for his chance to play in China. He now has the chance to play for China.
He represented England up to under-20 level and after leaving Arsenal has not returned to the Premier League, instead playing most of his football with Championship side Brentford. Moving to China as a naturalised player is a good move for Yennaris, or Li Ke as he is known.
He has impressed in his first few months, belting out the anthem before games and contributing to the club going to the top of the table – setting a record of 10 wins in the process.