Zhao Songyuan, 17, earns China call-up

Zhao Songyuan, a 17-year-old centre forward, has been called up to China's senior national team despite not having a professional contract. The Tsinghua University High School student is part of the squad for friendlies against Palestine, New Zealand, and Tajikistan in Chongqing between September 24 and October 6.

His selection is a direct result of strong performances for the youth national teams, with most young players currently involved in Asian Games duty. Zhao has been a part of the China U-17 setup for the last six months.

Prolific youth team record

Zhao Songyuan has been a standout performer for the China U-17 national team. In 18 appearances for the side, he has scored 20 goals. He announced himself with a hat-trick on his debut against East Timor during AFC U-17 Asian Cup qualification.

His next match was even more remarkable. Against Brunei, Zhao scored six of China's twelve goals in a dominant victory. He added two more goals in the remaining qualification matches as China finished top of Group A with 15 points and a goal difference of +42.

Journey to the Asian Cup final

China's U-17 team progressed to the final of the AFC U-17 Asian Cup, eventually losing 3-2 to Japan. Zhao played in all six of China's matches during the tournament, scoring four goals.

His recent form was highlighted at the Shanghai Future Stars Cup 2026. There, he faced youth teams from Arsenal, Athletic Bilbao, Bayer Leverkusen, and River Plate. Zhao played all four matches and scored two goals.

His performances earned him the tournament's 'Most Valuable Player' award. The final was cancelled due to an approaching typhoon, leading to China U-17 and Arsenal U-17 sharing the trophy.

Player profile

The source provided the following details about the young striker.

Zhao Songyuan's call-up makes him the first player without a professional contract to be selected for the China senior national team. The head coach of the senior side is Shao Jiayi.