Vancouver Whitecaps midfielder Aidan Fong has chosen to represent China over the Canadian men’s national team (CANMNT).
The 18-year-old talent, who joined the Whitecaps FC Pre-Academy in 2019, revealed his decision on Douyin, China’s version of TikTok.
Fong, born in Vancouver, BC, previously played with Mountain United FC in the EA SPORTS BC Soccer Premier League before joining the Whitecaps.
In 2023, he was among four Whitecaps players selected by Canada Soccer for the U-17 pre-tournament camp in Guatemala. Fong had also represented Canada in the Copa Mexico and other youth camps.
Now, things have taken a different turn. During his video statement, Fong expressed pride in his Chinese heritage.
“My father is of Chinese blood and was born in Fiji, and my grandmother was born in Kaiping City, Guangdong province in China. I am half Chinese and very proud of my Chinese identity,” he said.
While Fong’s decision to leave CANMNT may come as a surprise, it highlights his strong connection to his roots. “I have been selected for the Canadian youth national team but now I would like to change my nationality.
“I want to join the Chinese nationality and become a member of the Chinese national team one day,” he added.
More to read:
- LA Galaxy signs 2024 USL Championship young player of the year
- Messi’s next move revealed as Inter Miami pushes for a new deal
- FC Dallas secures Enzo Newman on first professional contract
This announcement definitely signals a shift in Fong’s international career aspirations. The midfielder’s decision to represent China could pave the way for other dual-nationality players to prioritize their cultural identity in sports.
For Canada Soccer, losing a promising young player like Fong is undoubtedly a blow. However, it opens the door for other rising talents within the Whitecaps Academy to step into the spotlight.