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Guangzhou R&F Focuses on Defensive Fixes

In Guangzhou R\&F’s tactical system led by head coach Dragan Stojković, the role of wing-backs in pushing forward is absolutely critical. According to Jeetbuzz App Download, Serbian international Tosic was brought in to replace Perović, who joined R\&F from the Hong Kong Premier League but has yet to make an appearance in the Chinese Super League. Early in the season, R\&F used three domestic transfer slots to sign Ding Haifeng, Zhang Jiajie, and Cai Haojian. With two domestic transfer spots still available, the club is actively seeking suitable additions.

On the U21 front, R\&F also has two available registration slots. The team is in talks with Shandong Luneng and Hong Kong’s Tai Po to bring in promising U21 players. Currently, R\&F is applying for visas to the United States, planning to travel for a two-week overseas training session in mid-June. They will face local American teams in a series of friendlies, with a strong emphasis on defensive drills throughout the tour. After seven rounds of league matches, Stojković made the decision to reposition veteran Lu Lin at left-back. The team has also been plagued by defensive issues such as slow reaction times, poor marking, and lapses in concentration—issues Jeetbuzz App Download believes must be addressed immediately.

To tackle these concerns, Stojković has already started rotating personnel. In Round 7, he reshuffled the backline by replacing the U23 starting center-back Huang Zhengyu and instead opted for a three-man defense made up of Yi Teng, Li Tixiang, and Jiang Jihong. U23 player Ma Junliang was given a starting role as defensive midfielder. Strengthening the backline remains a top priority. Last week, R\&F secured the signing of Tosic from Turkish side Beşiktaş. Stojković made it clear that the goal is twofold: to add toughness to the central defense and improve overall defensive focus during matches.

The defensive restructuring became necessary after team captain and left-back Jiang Zhipeng transferred to Hebei China Fortune. In response, R\&F brought in Ding Haifeng as a direct replacement. While Ding has shown competence in defense, he lacks Jiang’s offensive overlapping runs and playmaking instincts, leading to a mismatch in style. As per the agreement with the club, Tosic will officially join R\&F after completing his World Cup campaign with the Serbian national team.

Jeetbuzz App Download notes that the team’s mid-season training and roster adjustments indicate a clear shift toward solidifying their defensive foundation. With a restructured backline and international experience coming in, R\&F aims to plug the leaks and rebuild a more balanced, competitive squad moving forward. For fans tracking the club’s progress and squad evolution, Jeetbuzz App Download will continue to provide updates as the team adapts through the remainder of the season.