Chengdu Rongcheng Football Club is one of the most exciting stories in modern Chinese football. Founded in 2018, this club has quickly ascended through the league system to become a regular competitor at the highest level. In just a handful of years, it captured the imagination of local fans, contributed to the growth of football in Southwest China, and earned its place among the elite teams of the Chinese Super League (CSL).
In this article, we’ll explore the history, development, culture, achievements, squad, stadium, and passionate fanbase that define Chengdu Rongcheng FC. Whether you’re a dedicated supporter or a curious football follower, this guide will give you a comprehensive and engaging look at one of China’s fastest-rising clubs.
A Brief Beginning: From Better City to Rongcheng
Chengdu Rongcheng FC was founded in 2018 by the Chengdu Better City Investment Group, emerging from the remains of a previous local club. Initially called Chengdu Better City FC, the team began competing in local leagues with strong ambitions and strategic investment.
In 2021, to comply with Chinese Football Association rules requiring neutral club names, the club officially changed its name to Chengdu Rongcheng Football Club. The name “Rongcheng” reflects Chengdu’s identity and heritage, with “Rong” meaning hibiscus, symbolizing the city and the team’s connection to its local community.
Rapid Rise Through the Leagues
Chengdu Rongcheng quickly made its mark in Chinese football.
Early Promotions
2018: Debuted in the Chinese Champions League and earned promotion to China League Two.
2019: Finished as runners-up in China League Two and was promoted to China League One.
These consecutive promotions demonstrated the club’s ambition and organizational efficiency.
Breaking Into the Super League
After steady progress in the second tier, Chengdu Rongcheng secured promotion to the Chinese Super League in 2022, just four years after its foundation. Their performance in the CSL debut season was impressive, finishing in 5th place, narrowly missing continental competition qualification. This success highlighted the club’s rapid rise and competitive potential.
Stadium: Phoenix Hill Football Stadium
Chengdu Rongcheng plays its home matches at the Phoenix Hill Football Stadium, located in Chengdu’s Jinniu District.
Capacity: Approximately 50,695 spectators
Known for its vibrant matchday atmosphere
The stadium has become a symbol of the club’s ambition and the growing enthusiasm for football in the region
Matchdays are defined by roaring crowds, colorful banners, and passionate chants, making it one of the most exciting venues in Chinese football.
Management and Coaching
The club’s growth has been supported by experienced coaching and strategic leadership. Seo Jung-won, a former South Korean international, played a key role in developing a disciplined, balanced style of play that helped secure promotion and establish the club in the CSL.
The coaching team emphasizes tactical flexibility, blending local talent with foreign signings to create a competitive squad capable of challenging stronger, more established clubs.
On the Pitch: Squad and Style of Play
Playing Style
Chengdu Rongcheng is known for a balanced, competitive style:
Solid defensive organization
Quick counterattacks
Tactical adaptability
This approach allows the team to compete against more experienced CSL sides while nurturing young talents.
Key Players
The squad combines rising Chinese stars with international experience. Notable contributors include:
Hu Hetao — promising young defender
Mutellip Iminqari — creative midfielder
Foreign signings providing leadership and tactical strength
This mix of youth and experience has helped the club achieve consistent performances at the top level.
Fanbase and Supporter Culture
One of the club’s defining characteristics is its enthusiastic and growing fanbase:
Home matches regularly attract tens of thousands of supporters
Fans organize banners, chants, and coordinated displays
Social media presence helps connect supporters locally and internationally
The club also engages in community programs, promoting youth football and strengthening ties with local schools and grassroots initiatives. These programs ensure that Chengdu Rongcheng’s influence extends beyond the pitch.
Continental Breakthrough: AFC Champions League
After finishing high in the CSL standings, Chengdu Rongcheng qualified for the AFC Champions League Elite competition, marking the club’s first appearance in continental football. This milestone provided exposure against some of Asia’s top teams and offered invaluable experience for players and management alike.
The club’s participation in continental tournaments reflects its rapid growth and ambition to establish itself not only domestically but also on the Asian stage.
Challenges and Controversies
Like many ambitious clubs, Chengdu Rongcheng has faced challenges:
Internal disagreements between coaching staff and management over operational decisions
The pressure of competing in the top tier against financially stronger clubs
Despite these challenges, the team has consistently demonstrated resilience, bouncing back with strong performances and continued support from fans.
Community Impact Beyond Football
Chengdu Rongcheng’s influence extends far beyond matchdays:
Promoting youth football programs
Hosting local tournaments and football clinics
Serving as an ambassador for Chengdu’s culture and heritage
The club plays a central role in the city’s identity, helping to establish football as a key part of Chengdu’s cultural life.
Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations
Chengdu Rongcheng continues to aim high:
Competing consistently at the top of the CSL
Strengthening presence in continental competitions
Developing local talent through academy programs
Expanding fan engagement and global recognition
With solid infrastructure, committed fans, and strategic planning, the club is well-positioned to grow in influence and performance.
Conclusion: A Modern Success Story
Chengdu Rongcheng Football Club represents a modern success story in Chinese football — from a newly founded team in 2018 to a Super League contender and continental participant within just a few years.
The club’s rapid growth, passionate supporters, strong local identity, and competitive achievements demonstrate the power of clear vision and community support in professional sports.
Chengdu Rongcheng is more than a football team; it is a sybol of ambition, pride, and regional identity. As the club continues to evolve, it remains a team worth watching for fans of Chinese football and football enthusiasts around the world.