Israeli striker Zahavi hoping for a successful CSL season

DALIAN, China - Guangzhou R&F talisman Eran Zahavi has set his sights on the upcoming 2020 season of Chinese Super League (CSL), expressing his desire for a good outcome.

After being delayed for nearly five months due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020 CSL season is slated to kick off on July 25.

Zahavi admitted it feels extra special after awaiting so long.

"This year is very special to us, even to the world," he said. "The working staffs have made efforts to ensure our safety, so we appreciate what they have done."

Under the new format, the 16 teams have been split into two groups in two locations, one in Dalian and one in Suzhou. Each group of eight sides will be based at the same hotel to play the first phase of the season behind closed doors from July 25 to September 28.

Having broken the CLS scoring record for a single season last year, the 32-year-old now bids to help R&F achieve even better results in the new season.

"To me, the new format has no difference; my job is to score for the team. And what I expect is to have a good performance through the cooperation of our team," he said.