Back with a vengeance, Ironmen aim higher than mere survival

Special correspondent Shen Jun reports As a newly promoted side in the 2026 CSL, Liaoning Ironmen are unwilling to adopt a conservative approach focused solely on survival. During the winter transfer window, they launched a major recruitment drive, bringing in the Brazilian dribbling maestro He Fei Niao, Swedish national team defender Vagic, and former international Yan Dinghao, among others. From star foreign signings to precise domestic acquisitions, Liaoning Ironmen are transforming from a strong League One team into a rising CSL contender, with ambitions to revive the glory of the "Ten-time Champions."

Foreign players are the core competitiveness in the CSL, especially for promoted teams. Quality foreign signings not only enhance the squad’s strength but also bring valuable top-league experience. Liaoning Ironmen recognized this deeply, investing heavily in the 2026 winter window to secure five foreign players worth over ten million euros in total, making them the most active club in the CSL’s winter foreign market. Unlike some clubs that reinforce only specific positions, Liaoning’s recruits cover defense, midfield, and attack, creating a balanced setup that lays a solid foundation for their CSL campaign.

The biggest highlight among foreign signings is the 27-year-old Brazilian winger He Fei Niao, joining on loan. Previously bought by Lyon for 10 million euros and later moving to Botafogo, he brings experience from top European and South American leagues. Last season, he played 17 matches in the Brazilian Serie A, scoring 2 goals and assisting 4 times. Known for his exceptional speed, sharp dribbling, and delicate technique, he is a potent threat on the flank—capable of solo breakthroughs and delivering precise passes to forwards. Liaoning Ironmen hope to energize their attack with his individual skills, addressing their wing offensive weaknesses and accelerating their forward play.

A key defensive reinforcement is Swedish international center-back Vagic, valued at 2.5 million euros. A regular starter for Hammarby in the Swedish league, he appeared in 25 matches last season and stood out for his solid defending, aerial dominance, and interception skills. For Liaoning Ironmen, whose CSL opponents present a much higher attacking intensity than League One, defensive stability is crucial for survival. Vagic’s arrival will significantly strengthen the team’s defensive solidity and height, with head coach Li Jinyu expecting him to be the defensive backbone.

Besides these two new signings, Liaoning Ironmen retained three key players who helped secure promotion. Congolese forward Mbemba, who won the League One golden boot last season with 27 goals, remains the team’s attacking pillar. His powerful physique and clinical finishing make him an indispensable focal point up front, continuing to bear the scoring responsibility next season. Brazilian midfielder Felipe also stayed; familiar with the team’s system, he offers solid passing and defensive toughness, linking offense and defense to maintain tactical rhythm.

After a tough renewal process, Japanese winger Bangben Yoshihiro, last season’s League One assist leader, not only ensures squad continuity but also contributes to tactical stability, competitive strength, and team cohesion. Over the past two seasons, he has become the team’s midfield brain, recording 19 assists last season, leading the league with an 85% pass accuracy and 93 key passes. His deep affection for Shenyang and strong team loyalty, combined with clutch performances, have earned fan recognition, making him a spiritual symbol of the club.

Looking at the foreign player composition, Liaoning Ironmen have formed a balanced lineup featuring “1 core defender + 1 versatile midfielder + 3 attacking players,” with a reasonable age distribution. The total value of the five foreign players exceeds ten million euros, ranking among the top in the CSL. This setup could even challenge the league’s stronger teams.

Regarding domestic signings, Liaoning Ironmen prioritize practicality and targeted reinforcement, focusing precisely on key central positions. Nearly ten domestic transfers have refreshed the squad, addressing the lack of CSL experience and depth, creating a balanced mix of veterans, prime-age players, and young talents.

In midfield, Liaoning signed Yan Dinghao and Li Tixiang, with Yan from Rongcheng considered a core acquisition. The 27-year-old experienced midfielder played 27 matches last season for Rongcheng, scoring 3 goals and providing 1 assist. He can handle defensive interceptions and excels at organizing play, acting as the team’s rhythm setter during transitions.

Li Tixiang’s arrival further strengthens midfield depth. With many years of CSL experience, his precise passing and creativity offer more tactical options, and his experience helps nurture younger players.

Goalkeeper reinforcements are equally important, with the club signing former Taishan keeper Han Rongze and Rongcheng’s Zhang Yan. The former is experienced and consistent, while the latter also brings CSL experience and has delivered impressive performances. The duo will foster healthy competition.

In defense, Liaoning Ironmen brought in solid players such as Tian Ziyi, Zheng Jiacheng, and Dilimulati.

Up front, the team retained players like Zang Yifeng and added 25-year-old striker Tian Yuda, injecting fresh blood into the attack.

Overall, Liaoning Ironmen’s domestic roster shows a clear blend of veterans, mid-career, and young players. Over a dozen domestic signings complement each other perfectly, covering all positions and reaching mid-table CSL squad depth. Notably, many domestic recruits have CSL experience, effectively addressing the promoted team’s lack of top-league exposure and laying a solid foundation for the new season.

During winter training, Liaoning Ironmen focused on practicing high pressing and wing-center coordination tactics. On their training trip to Thailand, they showed good team chemistry in friendlies—winning 5-0 and 4-0 against third-tier Thai league teams with an all-Chinese lineup. After several foreign players joined, they drew 2-2 with South Korea’s Gyeongju KHNP, where He Fei Niao and Vagic made impressive debuts, and Tian Yuda scored a late header to equalize.

Overall, Liaoning Ironmen’s prospects for survival in the new season look promising, with potential to become a dark horse. The squad building is nearly complete, and the focus now shifts to refining tactics, enhancing player cohesion, and maintaining fitness to face the season in peak condition.

Among the new signings, He Fei Niao’s performance is highly anticipated. The former Lyon and Botafogo attacker said in an interview he plans to quickly adapt to life in China and help the team achieve good results, even aiming for the championship.

“I’m honored to play here and hope to convey positive energy through my performance, attracting more Brazilian players to China and the CSL to showcase themselves,” He Fei Niao said. Joining Liaoning Ironmen represents a fresh challenge and experience in his career. Previously at Botafogo, injuries limited his appearances, but the CSL offers a new stage to prove himself, and he is eager to demonstrate his football skills.

Asked why he chose Liaoning Ironmen, He Fei Niao mentioned many Brazilian players already play in China, including good friends who told him China is an excellent country. “That’s why I decided to come here.” Regarding adapting to the climate and environment, he is confident: “I believe I will quickly adjust to life in Shenyang and integrate with the team to contribute my strength.”

Reflecting on his time at Lyon, He Fei Niao said he benefited greatly. “Ligue 1 is one of Europe’s top five leagues, with very high intensity and many excellent international players. My teammates helped me a lot.”

He Fei Niao revealed he suffered a serious knee injury and stayed professional and disciplined during recovery with rigorous training. “Injuries are hard to avoid for professionals. The past two seasons, injuries affected my playing time. Next season, I hope to stay injury-free and help Liaoning Ironmen in top form.”

As a forward, He Fei Niao possesses excellent driving ability and absolute speed, making him a potent weapon for counterattacks and breakthroughs. However, he emphasized football is a team sport, and individual performance depends on the team system, praising the harmonious atmosphere within Liaoning Ironmen.

“I hope to create more chances for the team’s attack,” He Fei Niao admitted. Though unfamiliar with CSL teams, he looks forward to matches against Shanghai Port and Shenhua, and is eager to compete alongside other Brazilian foreign players.

Regarding the new season, He Fei Niao said the team is preparing intensively. As a member, he expects to push for better league results with the whole squad, aiming for breakthroughs both personally and collectively. “I hope to help Liaoning Ironmen challenge the top of the table, including the title.”

He Fei Niao is cheerful and naturally optimistic, already eager to play. “I’m very excited to feel the fans’ passion at home games. Even in cold weather, the fans’ cheers, the stadium atmosphere, and the joy of winning will give me strength. In the new season, I will bring more happiness to the fans with outstanding performances, especially goals.”