The Chinese Football Association (CFA) has released a list of 49 clubs that will enter the 2025 season across the professional leagues in China. Notable absentees are the Cangzhou Mighty Lions, eight time Chinese Super League champions Guangzhou FC, and Hunan Xiangtao.

The 49 clubs, including CSL champions Shanghai Port, gained admission to compete in the new season, following the clubs' material submission, review and approval by member associations, review by the CFA, debt repayment announcement, and the clubs' resolving complaints within the specified time.

Cangzhou, second-division Guangzhou, and third-tier Hunan failed to make it into the admission list, and consequently, will not be able to participate. The CFA added it will follow up with clubs that did not obtain eligibility due to arrears and debts.