China’s beleaguered football game should be ruled by law and the sport should be more market-oriented, according to a proposal being submitted by NPC member Zeng Qinghong.

The president of Guangzhou Auto Group, which sponsors the local football team, said he will put forward plans during the sessions to establish a sound football player transfer system and reduce the power of the Chinese Football Association in the decision-making process.

“The government should retreat from directing the football team operation but be a good supervisor. Let the football teams be clubs and the market discipline run its course,” Zeng said.