Zhao Junzhe, former Chinese national team footballer and current general manager of the Chinese Super League's (CSL) Hebei China Fortune, on Saturday gave CCTV-5 show "Soccer Night" his views on the coming CSL season.

The 2020 season will start on July 25 after being postponed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

"The seven-month-long preparation is new to everyone and raises a big challenge to all clubs," said Zhao. "Honestly, we were worried that the season might be canceled when it was delayed again and again. But the starting date was finally confirmed, all thanks to the football association and the general administration."

The 16 CSL teams will be divided into two groups and play games behind closed doors in two designated cities, Dalian and Suzhou. 

Zhao admitted that there will be extra mental pressure on players since they will stay in a closed environment for a long time. Therefore, relaxation is necessary. "We have been communicating with the football association, trying to get players some entertainment facilities. Hopefully the tight game schedule can turn our attention to the field," said Zhao.

Zhao did not expect any family visits because of the strict prevention and control policies against the coronavirus. He revealed everyone involved will have to go through two rounds of nucleic acid tests before entering the venue. Once you enter the venue, you are not allowed outside and if you leave, you are not allowed inside.

Hebei China Fortune are in Group B in Suzhou, a factor that concerned Zhao. Most of Hebei's players are from north China where the climate is very different from that in east China's Suzhou. Zhao said the team will bring more medical and other staff members to the venue to help players prepare.

When asked about Hebei's goal for the season, Zhao said: "I never experienced this kind of game mode when I was a player, but our goal remains the same. First we must try to stay in the top league and then work our way towards something else step by step."