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Ramon Vega exclusive: 'I would have taken Chinese money'

Yahoo's Sport Business Correspondent says he would have have loved the opportunity to experience the culture, and money in China. Embrace the far east money, they are here to stay.

The former England and current Shanghai SIPG coach is not surprised by the likes of Jackson Martinez, Ramires and Alex Teixeira moving to the Far East.
The former England and current Shanghai SIPG coach is not surprised by the likes of Jackson Martinez, Ramires and Alex Teixeira moving to the Far East.


This week saw the beginning of the Chinese New Year. The timing was most appropriate in footballing terms, as the Chinese Super League took yet more strides in its mission to launch a new era in the sport.

With the likes of Ramires, Alex Teixeira and Jackson Martinez joining the Chinese football revolution, could we be seeing the potential emergence of a new superpower of the Beautiful Game?

There is also speculation that Wayne Rooney and John Terry could follow the exodus, as China launches a possible bid to host the 2026 World Cup.

Money is obviously a huge driving force behind the migration, with Sven Goran Eriksson reportedly earning the exorbitant net sum of £15 million per year.

However, there is also the allure of joining a new project as it seeks growth and expansion.

Traditionally, players have looked to secure contracts in the MLS or the Emirates at the latter stages of their career.

But the Chinese clubs seem intent on also attracting players at the peak of their game.

Interestingly, there has been a huge rise in the value of the TV deal for Chinese Super League rights and with the enormous population there is obviously the ingredients there to create a dynamic, thriving, competitive league.

The Chinese President is a huge fan, illustrated by his Sergio Aguero selfie last year, and Chinese investors have been buying up stakes in football clubs across Europe over the past couple of years, culminating in the acquisition of 13% of Manchester City’s parent firm.

I have been to China on numerous occasions and have always been struck by the people’s passion for sport.

In the past that has manifested itself in a love of basketball, yet I have seen that football has started to make more of a mark, especially since China qualified for the 2002 World Cup.

When you read about viewing figures for the China national team matches reaching around 250 million in the past, that really brings home the incredible reservoir of potential talent the country possesses.

If I had had the chance I would certainly have considered spending a spell there, learning about a different culture and being part of something new.

And I believe ultimately the rise of Chinese football should be welcomed, rather than looked at with fear or suspicion.

It is not good for football if it is dominated by a select few- the development of other footballing nations should be encouraged.

Competition is healthy, in football just as it can be in business with the emergence of new markets.

It will be fascinating to see if the growth can be maintained and the momentum continued.

If so, the sky is the limit for football in China.

Ramon Vega is a versatile high-flying executive with a comprehensive track record of driving commercial success in finance, property and football with national, international and World Cup experience as captain of the Swiss National Team in 1994. Proven experience in managing $billion funds in the asset management industry as well as a turnaround specialist who combines financial and business acumen, Ramon has a flair for inspiring others to exceed their own expectations. Follow him on Twitter here @Ramon_Vega71  (http://frompitchtoboardroom.com)