Talent development in Chinese football: A comparative analysis of developmental activities between international and professional players

This study compared developmental activities of Chinese male international and professional football players and used the comparison to characterize the broader talent pathway in China. A total of 112 players (57 international, 55 professional) completed the Participation History Questionnaire, assessing birth date and birthplace, developmental milestones, football-specific activities, participation in other sports, and social support across childhood (6-12 years), adolescence (13-17 years), and adulthood (≥18 years). A significant relative age effect was observed, with 42% (46/110) born in the first quartile of the selection year. Player origins were descriptively concentrated in densely populated, economically developed regions. Players typically began football at age 8. Groups differed in senior first-team entry age (p = 0.01) and adult individual practice (p = 0.022). Development was dominated by coach-led practice, whereas unstructured peer-led play was limited; 96% (108/112) reported no childhood participation in other sports. International players reported greater coach support (p = 0.001). These findings suggest that limited unstructured play and early sport diversification may constrain opportunities for attaining the highest level, highlighting the need to encourage diversification and reduce resource-related biases in talent development.