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Sun Jihai's impact on Manchester City ahead of Asia Tour 2026

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 23, 2026, 7:20 AM

Last updated Jul 23, 2026

Sun Jihai's impact on Manchester City ahead of Asia Tour 2026

Summary

As Manchester City prepares for its Asia Tour 2026, the club reflects on Sun Jihai's significant contributions during his time at the club from 2002 to 2006. The first Asian player to sign for City, Sun became a fan favorite, known for his versatility in defense and midfield. He was a crucial part of the squad as City secured promotion to the Premier League and scored the first goal by an East Asian player in the league. City will be playing against K League All Stars in South Korea and Atlético Madrid during the tour, continuing to build its popularity in Asia.

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Status Watch

•Sun Jihai joined Manchester City from Dalian Shide in 2002.
•He was the first East Asian player to score in the Premier League.
•City's Asia Tour includes matches against K League All Stars and Atlético Madrid.
•Sun became a cult hero during City's early Premier League years.
•His versatility contributed to City's promotion and subsequent successes.

Latest Updates

7:20 AMYahoo Sports — Asia Tour 2026: Remembering Sun Jihai’s City career

What they're saying

"
Ahead of our Asia Tour this summer, we reflect on an Asian player who made a big impact in east Manchester… Men's Team How to follow City on this summer’s Asia Tour We’ll return to South Korea t...
— Yahoo Sports

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