Overview
- Guangzhou FC, formerly Guangzhou Evergrande, failed to meet the Chinese Football Association's financial requirements for the 2025 season due to heavy historical debt.
- The club, which dominated Chinese football with eight Super League titles and two Asian Champions League victories, announced its disbandment on Monday.
- Cangzhou Mighty Lions and third-tier Hunan Xiangtao were also ruled ineligible for the 2025 season due to financial issues.
- Guangzhou FC's downfall is linked to the financial collapse of its majority owner, Evergrande Group, which had invested heavily in the club during its peak years.
- The Chinese Football Association approved 49 clubs for the 2025 season and emphasized the importance of financial sustainability and youth development in its statement.