Wang Chu: Embrace the gap

Recently, Chinese player Wang Chu, who once played abroad at FC Metz, gave an interview to Ligue 1, discussing how his experience in France improved him and sharing his views on young players going overseas.

Wang Chu said: “For me, French football didn’t just improve my technical skills. Since I went there at a young age, it shaped my understanding of the game. In France, there is a strong emphasis on the desire to win, physical confrontation, teamwork, and vertical play. They don’t focus on whether the game looks flashy or aesthetically pleasing—everything is geared toward winning. That includes the impact from both ends, and the awareness to fight for every 50-50 ball and second ball. This has had a profound influence on my coaching philosophy today.”

“Another aspect is professional attitude. In France, technical mistakes are tolerated to some extent—coaches won’t demand perfection in every touch. But they will not tolerate any lack of effort or deviation in attitude. They might forgive you for missing a one-on-one chance, but they will not accept a player who doesn’t fully commit in a 50-50 situation or fight for second balls. This sense of professionalism and fighting spirit has had a huge impact on my development,” he added.

Speaking about advice for young players going abroad, Wang Chu said: “It really depends on the individual. First of all, you have to truly want to go and step out of your comfort zone. Those who get the opportunity are usually among the best in their age group domestically—otherwise, going abroad has little meaning. But when you leave, the reality changes. You may go from being a ‘star’ at home, where everyone looks after you, to someone who has to run more, defend more, and live daily with teammates who speak different languages. That’s a challenge. You must accept the psychological gap and be mentally prepared for the environment you’re entering. You need to be strong and resilient—this is something you must think through before making the move.”

After retiring, Wang Chu has devoted himself to youth development. Speaking about factors affecting young players, he noted: “One major issue is lack of focus among Chinese players. Even ten years ago, when Chinese coaches visited France, this question was raised: why do Chinese players struggle with concentration? French coaches couldn’t really answer, because their players are very focused. When we observe French youth training, even younger age groups, every player listens attentively when the coach speaks—no one is distracted. We’ve tried to find reasons: maybe Chinese players train too much and become fatigued, or face excessive academic pressure, or it’s related to parenting styles. But the issue persists. Even among the relatively well-trained or elite players I work with, it still appears and directly affects training quality. Another problem is excessive parental intervention, where parents transfer their own anxiety onto their children.”