Zhang Yuning: Injury stopped my salute

Beijing Guoan were held to a 0-0 draw away to Zhejiang FC in Round 6 of the Chinese Super League. After the match, Guoan captain Zhang Yuning went to the home supporters’ section to acknowledge the crowd, but the Wenzhou-born striker—who came through Zhejiang’s youth system—was met with questions and boos from some fans.

In recent days, Zhang responded in the comments section of his personal short-video account to a Zhejiang supporter, explaining that he did not salute the stands last year because he was forced off injured. He also addressed the circumstances of his moves abroad and back to China, saying his transfer to Europe left Zhejiang with a total of €1.1 million from a later sale, and that when he returned he was still under contract, with Beijing Guoan paying a transfer fee.

Zhang’s comments drew support from a number of Zhejiang fans, with many replying to encourage him.