Loss of player seen as a win for nation

The big-money signing of Brazilian soccer player Paulinho by Spanish giant Barcelona from Guangzhou Evergrande has helped improve the image of Chinese soccer, according to sports insiders.

"Paulinho's move to Barcelona is a loss for the defending Chinese Super League champion, but it is a good thing for Chinese soccer," said Xie Liang, a veteran soccer commentator with Radio Guangdong.

More often than not, the CSL has been painted as a semiretirement home for international players who have passed their prime and are looking for large paychecks in China, he said.