The Chinese Super League's all-star XI
As Juventus target Axel Witsel joins the growing stable of stars in China, we put together a star-studded starting XI of players who snubbed Europe for the cashed-up Chinese Super League.
Zenit midfielder Axel Witsel looked set for a move to Juventus, before newly promoted Tianjin Quanjian swooped in with an offer the 27 year-old couldn't refuse.
The Chinese Super League has shaken up the natural order, outbidding European heavyweights for world class players in their prime.
Shanghai SIPG just signed 25 year-old Chelsea star Oscar, while cross-town rival Shanghai Shenhua made Carlos Tevez the highest paid player in the world, agreeing terms on a reported $1 million per week deal.
As more stars opt for a move east, a colossal side is beginning to take shape of stars who snubbed Europe for the serious cash on offer in China.
Goalkeeper:
- Zeng Cheng (Guangzhou Evergrande)
Defence:
- Trent Sainsbury (Jiangsu Suning)
- Hong Jeong-ho (Jiangsu Suning)
- Stephane Mbia (Hebei China Fortune FC)
Midfield:
- Axel Witsel (Tianjin Quanjian)
- Paulinho (Guangzhou Evergrande)
- Ramires (Jiangsu Suning)
- Oscar (Shanghai SIPG)
- Hulk (Shanghai SIPG)
Attack:
- Carlos Tevez (Shanghai Shenhua)
- Ezequiel Lavezzi (Hebei China Fortune FC)
Bench:
- Gael Kakuta (Hebei China Fortune FC)
- Graziano Pelle (Shandong Luneng)
- Alex Teixeira (Jiangsu Suning)
- Jackson Martinez (Guangzhou Evergrande)
- Fredy Guarin (Shanghai Greenland Shenhua FC)
Coach:
Andre Villas Boas (Shanghai SIPG)
