Shanghai Shenhua Earns AFC Three-Star Academy Status

Shanghai Shenhua officially earned the AFC Three-Star Academy status on July 15, 2026, joining the Chinese Football Association (CFA) in a historic breakthrough for Chinese youth football. The certification, awarded by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), places the club's academy system among the elite in Asia.

How is the certification assessed? What makes three stars?

The AFC Elite Academy Program uses a three-tier star rating system covering 11 core areas, including organizational structure, training planning, competition systems, coaching qualifications, and talent selection mechanisms. The three-star level is the highest, requiring compliance with 20 assessment standards across facilities, medical rehabilitation, sports science, and cultural education. In June 2026, AFC experts conducted on-site inspections at Shanghai Shenhua's academy in Shanghai and gave high praise.

Why does this matter for Shanghai Shenhua?

CFA Chairman Song Kai stated that the three-star certification for Shanghai Shenhua and two other clubs fully demonstrates their years of dedication to systematic team-building, improved facilities, and integrated education-training models. Club academy director Li Ming revealed that Shenhua's U19 team has produced five players for the senior team in the past three years, including current international Zhang Zhigang.

How long is the certification valid? What's next?

The AFC Elite Academy Program's star membership is valid for three years, subject to renewal. Li Ming disclosed that Shanghai Shenhua has a five-year academy upgrade plan, including adding an indoor training hall to the existing three pitches and expanding the U15-U19 squad system to eight teams. The club will also collaborate with Shanghai University of Sport to introduce sports nutritionists and psychological counselors, further enhancing the scientific level of youth training.