First naturalized footballer debuts in Chinese Super League

Nico Yennaris, a former Arsenal player, made his debut as the first naturalized footballer in the Chinese Super League (CSL) when his Beijing Guo'an club scored a 1-0 win over Beijing Renhe in a third round Beijing derby on Saturday, March 30, 2019.

Nico Yennaris, known in China as Li Ke, with the Beijing Guo'an Football Club, takes on Beijing Renhe in their 3rd round match during the 2019 Chinese Football Association Super League (CSL) in Beijing, China, March 30, 2019. [Photo: IC]

After gaining his Chinese citizenship, the London-born former England youth international joined Guo'an in January. He is now playing under his Chinese name Li Ke.

Roger Schmidt, head coach of Guo'an, spoke highly of Li Ke, saying "his debut was good, especially as he had not played real games after his arrival. He found his pace, kept a good position and defended well."

Li Ke, who played his last game three months ago, said "I feel myself on the pitch, very glad to play the game. I have chemistry with my teammates, thanks to their patience. I have been learning Chinese and the national anthem of China. Singing national anthem is important."