URUMQI, Oct. 25 (Xinhua) -- A sixth-grade football player from a small village school in Xinjiang recently captured millions of viewers on China's popular short-video platform, Douyin, with his tactical insights and leadership skills.

The young player, Muhmet Abusatar, drew up a strategic game plan on a classroom blackboard to prepare his team for the final match in a local school tournament, ensuring each teammate understood their role.

"We've got two midfielders and three strikers. We need to control the ball carefully and avoid solo plays - let's wear them out with our passing," said Muhmet. "They're strong, but our goal is to win this game and take the championship."

With Muhmet's guidance, his team secured a 1-0 victory, clinching the school championship. His tactical clarity and infectious enthusiasm have earned him the nickname "China's young Josep Guardiola" from fans nationwide.

Muhmet's love for football stems from his father, who played in local amateur matches. Growing up on the sidelines, Muhmet absorbed the game's rhythm and passion and joined his school's football team in his third grade.

"His speed, dribbling, and energy are outstanding, inspiring the whole team both on and off the field," said his coach, Arshin Bolat. "It's like having a mini-assistant coach," Arshin continued, highlighting Muhmet's ability to analyze opponents' weaknesses and devise tactics.

As vice-captain, Muhmet's influence extends beyond director. Known for rallying his teammates during games, he also gathers and organizes equipment after every practice.

"We're one united team. Even if a teammate makes a mistake and the opponent scores, we pick each other up and keep going until we win together," said Muhmet.

Muhmet's story underscores the rapid growth of football in Xinjiang, a region in western China that has seen substantial investment in sports infrastructure in recent years. The Xinjiang government's development plan aims for every elementary and secondary school to have or share access to a football field by 2025, with a goal of boosting youth participation to a competitive national level by 2030.

Local officials transformed the old dusty field at Muhmet's Aktubek Town Central Primary School in Gongliu County into grass turf, allowing more children to take up the sport and dream big.

Many in China's football community see Xinjiang as an emerging talent hub, with players like Behram Abduweli, who recently made history as the first Xinjiang local to represent China in an official match.

"Football builds strength, teaches kids cooperation, and shows them the importance of hard work," said coach Arshin. "We want more kids to experience the joy of this sport."

Muhmet, too, has big dreams for the future. "My dream is to grow up to be a professional player and represent China on the world stage," he said. Enditem

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