Sun Jihai

Awards & Honours

Awards Won

Honours

Records

Sun Jihai's place in football history is secured by a series of firsts. He was the first East Asian to score in the Premier League, the first Chinese player to score in the UEFA Cup, and a key member of the China squad at the 2002 World Cup. His 151 appearances for Manchester City are a testament to his consistency and longevity at the highest level. Beyond his playing career, Sun has become a respected voice in Chinese football, using his platform to push for meaningful reform.

AwardsSun Jihai's career was defined more by pioneering achievements than individual trophies. He won multiple Chinese Jia-A League titles with Dalian Wanda and was named Manchester City Player of the Year during his tenure. The International Federation of Football History & Statistics (IFFHS) has recognised him as a legend of the game.

Honours & Distinctions

IFFHS Legend

International Federation of Football History & Statistics·2021

Recognized as a legend of the game for his contributions to football.

Records & Feats

First East Asian to score in the Premier League

Historic First·2002

Scored for Manchester City in 2002, a historic first for East Asian players.

First Chinese player to score in the UEFA Cup

Historic First·2005

Achieved while playing for Manchester City.