Oscar Departs Shanghai Port, Marking the End of an Era in Chinese Football

Oscar Departs Shanghai Port, Marking the End of an Era

Brazilian footballer Oscar dos Santos Emboaba Junior, better known as Oscar, has officially announced his departure from China's Shanghai Port FC after eight successful seasons. His exit marks the end of what many consider the Chinese Super League's (CSL) "golden era" of high-profile international signings.

The 33-year-old midfielder joined Shanghai Port in December 2016 for a record-breaking 60 million euros transfer fee from Chelsea. During his time in China, he made 248 appearances across all competitions, scoring 77 goals and delivering countless assists. His contributions helped the team win five trophies, including the CSL championships in 2023 and 2024, where he served as team captain.

In his farewell statement, Oscar reflected on his time in Shanghai, describing it as "a chapter that has forever marked my life." He expressed his gratitude for the club and its fans, stating that playing in Shanghai was a privilege and that he would never forget the energy of the supporters.

Oscar's departure coincides with the club's 19th anniversary, making it a symbolic moment for both parties. In an emotional statement, Shanghai Port thanked their captain for his years of dedication and leadership, stating that he would always be their pride.

Oscar's exit also symbolizes a turning point for the CSL. The league, once known for its lavish spending on stars like Oscar, Hulk, and Paulinho, has shifted towards a more sustainable approach. The introduction of salary caps on foreign players and stricter financial regulations has made retaining high-profile players like Oscar increasingly difficult.

Football commentator Chen Yong believes that Oscar's departure shows the CSL faces a new reality. Teams will now need to rely more on strong management and sharp scouting rather than the dominance of foreign players. However, Chen emphasizes that Shanghai Port remains a powerhouse capable of competing for future CSL championships, despite the temporary setback caused by Oscar's exit.