Young stars have eyes on Europe

photo by QIU BO

"Making money or being famous is not my aim now," Wang says. "I'm still far from being a success."

A few months before he joined Club Brugge, Wang Shangyuan had a chance to play for one of the most famous clubs in the world, English Premier League giant Manchester City. However, manager Robert Mancini, who admired Wang's talent, was suddenly sacked while Wang was still on trial.

So Wang had to pursue his career in Belgium where he shone in his first few games. But after the coach who had signed him moved to another job, his successor has relied on his experienced players and decided he didn't need Wang.

However, this has not deterred Wang, who knows he has to be patient and keep working on his skills.

Wang says he always remembers what his mentor, Li Hui, a former China international, once told him: "How can you shed tears in the spotlight some day, if you haven't suffered enough to cry?"