The recent buzz around Cryzan’s potential naturalization for the Chinese national team has been intense. From voluntarily wearing the national team jersey to openly stating in interviews that he is happy playing in China and waiting for negotiations, the speculation is mounting. Although some media outlets suggest it’s still early days, they haven’t ruled out the possibility. Here are three key reasons why I believe Cryzan’s naturalization is truly feasible.
First, there’s the financial aspect. The high-cost naturalization model used by Evergrande is a unique historical case. For example, Manchester United star Tahith Chong previously stated he didn’t need a signing bonus—he just wanted to play in the World Cup. Similarly, foreign players in the Chinese Super League like Dulatic and Fabio have expressed willingness to play for the national team without demanding financial compensation. Cryzan, whose contract expires next year, could easily be convinced by renewing his contract with Shandong Taishan. Shandong could also replace the underperforming naturalized player Delgado with Cryzan, making it a win-win situation.
Second, even if Shandong Taishan lacks the funds or motivation for naturalization, other top Chinese Super League clubs would find the deal attractive. At 31, Cryzan would likely be offered a career-ending contract, which would cover the costs. He doesn’t take up a foreign player slot, making him a highly desirable asset.
Third, Cryzan will never make the Brazilian national team, but he undoubtedly wants to play in the World Cup. Imagine if Shao Jiayi’s current team, which reached the U23 Asian Cup final, adds Cryzan, Romulo, and Felipe as three new naturalized players, alongside existing naturalized players like Sergio and Tyias Browning. This squad would make a World Cup berth almost a certainty. That is a huge draw for Cryzan.
If Cryzan is naturalized, he would become the most individually talented player in Chinese men’s national team history. His impact would surpass even prime Wu Lei, and he is an entirely different type of player compared to naturalized stars like Aikesen or Sergio. This is an opportunity that can’t be missed—wait another decade and it will be gone.
