Zhang Zhiyong

Zhang Zhiyong joined Guangzhou's football school in 2016 as a self-funded trainee, working his way into the club's elite squad two years later. On 20 July 2024, he made his professional debut for Guangzhou FC in a China League One fixture against Foshan Nanshi — and marked it with a goal in the ninth minute.

That breakthrough season brought 19 appearances and three goals, including a header against Guangxi FC in October 2024. The same campaign also carried a setback: in November 2024, the Chinese Football Association banned him for six matches and fined him 60,000 RMB, alongside teammate Liu Langzhou, over an incident involving insults directed at referees and damage to facilities.

When Guangzhou FC withdrew from professional football, Zhang moved on to Chongqing Tongliang Long in January 2025. He became a key part of the squad, and his form over the China League One season earned him the competition's Best Young Player award.

Zhang has also represented China at under-20 level, featuring at the 2025 U20 Asian Cup. Those who have watched him describe a calm, composed midfielder with good vision and passing range — qualities he has said he tries to draw from his idol, Toni Kroos.