How many foreign players are in Hong Kong’s current squad?

The Dragons are gearing up for their upcoming AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers encounter against India.

The Hong Kong national football team has emerged as a competitive force in Asian football, with an increasing reliance on naturalised foreign players. With FIFA eligibility rules allowing players to switch allegiance under certain conditions, Hong Kong has benefited from this flexibility by integrating several foreign-born talents into its setup.

The foreign players have not only added diversity but have also significantly raised the overall quality and experience of the team. With some of the players even having prior experience of playing in Europe, head team coach Ashley Westwood will be looking to benefit from these players.

Here’s a detailed look at the 12 foreign players representing Hong Kong in the current squad:

12. Michael Chibuikem Udebuluzor (Nigeria)

Born in Nigeria and raised in Europe, Michael Udebuluzor is a dynamic forward who brings explosive pace and physical presence to Hong Kong’s attack. A product of the youth system at Kitchee, he is known for his quick feet and strong finishing.

Udebuluzor has quickly adapted to international football and offers a potent threat on the counter. His blend of European training and African flair makes him one of the most exciting prospects in the squad.

11. Stefan Pereira (Brazil)

A seasoned striker, Stefan Pereira hails from Brazil and has spent multiple seasons in the Hong Kong Premier League, earning a reputation as a clinical goal-scorer. A classic No. 9 with sharp positioning and aerial prowess, the Camaçari-BA youth product is another player with plenty of experience.

His calmness and composure in front of the goal have made him a reliable figure in the national team setup since gaining eligibility to play for the Dragons.

10. Awal Mahama (Cameroon)

The Cameroonian-born right-winger adds versatility and athleticism to Hong Kong’s attack. A right winger by trade, he is known for his powerful running and no-nonsense approach in creating chances for his teammates.

The AJ Auxerre B youth product will be a key player for Ashley Westwood’s side against India and a player to watch.

9. Everton Camargo (Brazil)

An attacking midfielder or winger, Everton Camargo is one of the most technically gifted players in the squad. Born in Brazil, he dazzles with his dribbling skills and creative playmaking.

Camargo has been one of the long-time standout players in the domestic league. His flair and vision make him a consistent threat in the final third for Hong Kong.

8. Raphaël Merkies (France)

The French-born left-winger brings elegance and calm to the attacking setup and is one of the most promising players for Hong Kong. A player comfortable with the ball at his feet, he often starts build-up play from threatening positions in the wide areas.

Merkies combines positional awareness with intelligent reading and adds a continental style of composure to Hong Kong’s frontline. He was a bright spot for Hong Kong against Manchester United FC in a recent friendly in Asia.

7. Juninho (Brazil)

Another Brazilian influence, Juninho, is a versatile attacker capable of playing across the frontline. With excellent acceleration and a knack for scoring in tight spaces, he provides depth and unpredictability to the Dragons’ attack.

Juninho’s adaptability allows Hong Kong to rotate formations without sacrificing attacking edge, and he has already become a fan favourite. He was also on the scoresheet for Hong Kong against Manchester United FC in a recent friendly game.

6. Nicholas Benavides (Chile)

A central midfielder from Chile, Benavides is known for his tough tackling and relentless work rate, with versatility to play on the left channel in any position. He brings South American grit to the team and excels in breaking up opposition play and moving the ball up the field.

His combative nature and sharp distribution allow Hong Kong to maintain midfield control in high-pressure matches and win games.

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5. Fernando (Brazil)

A creative lynchpin, Fernando is another Brazilian talent who adds finesse and tactical intelligence to the midfield. A natural-born leader, midfield specialist, and a brilliant passer.

An instrumental figure in orchestrating Hong Kong’s attacking play. His vision and football IQ make him a core component of the squad. As one of Westwood’s trusted lieutenants and captain of the squad, Fernando will be a key figure against India in the heart of midfield.

4. Hélio (Brazil)

The veteran centre-back has been with the Hong Kong national team for several years now. Born in Brazil, he offers leadership, discipline, and a deep understanding of the local game despite being in his late 30s.

His experience is invaluable, especially in crucial matches, and he remains one of the most trusted defenders in the squad. Hélio has made 38 appearances for the national team till 2025 and will be looking to add more this June.

3. Leon Jones (Scotland)

A Scottish-born defender who has brought a European defensive mindset to the Hong Kong team. A centre-back with strong tackling ability and good stamina, he is often tasked with man-marking duties against top wingers.

His work rate and defensive awareness are vital assets on counterattacks. He will be tasked with keeping Sunil Chhetri and Lallianzuala Chhangte under wraps in the upcoming game.

2. Oliver Gerbig (Germany)

A player raised in Germany and of Hong Kong descent, Oliver Gerbig plays as a central defender for the Dragons. He combines physicality with disciplined positioning and is strong in the air against attackers.

His European training and background give him a tactical edge, and his steady development has seen him become a regular in the national setup. Gerbig will surely be in action against India in the upcoming 2027 AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers.

1. Sohgo Ichikawa (Japan)

While originally hailing from Japan, Ichikawa is a technically sharp and tactically sound midfielder. A player comfortable in tight spaces and effective in link-up play, he acts as a bridge between defensive midfield and attack.

His composure and passing range provide balance in midfield, and he continues to grow in confidence with each cap. The 20-year-old could be the creative spark that Westwood needs against India.

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