The news was first shared by Sun during a live broadcast of popular CCTV program Who is the King – a school-centric football contest program, where Sun was invited as a guest star to engage with football teams of all ages from primary school through to college.
Sun made 130 appearances for the Blues where he spent six years, from 2002 to 2008, scoring for the Club on four occasions.
He was the first Chinese player to score in the Premier League; heading home in a 2-0 victory over Birmingham City in October 2002.
The defender was a fan favourite, helping City to win the First Division title in 2002.
As part of his new role as ambassador, the highly decorated player will promote the work City are undertaking within the local community and with their local partners in China.
Speaking about his appointment, Sun Jihai said: “I’m more than happy to rejoin the big Manchester City family and take on the new role as an ambassador.
“I am very much looking forward to working with the professional marketing and management team at City to promote football in China, and to work with City fans once again.”
Ferran Soriano, Chief Executive of Manchester City FC, added, “Everyone at the Club is delighted to welcome one of our much-loved ex-players – Sun Jihai – back in the City team to represent us as an ambassador in China.
“We believe that with Sun on board, we can build a stronger link between the Club and our fans in China and help us to work more closely with our China-based partners.”
Sun Jihai: Best moments
City begin their Champions League campaign against last season’s finalist Juventus on Tue 15th Sept at 7.45pm. For a first glimpse of new signings Kevin De Bruyne and Nicolas Otamendi, make sure you’re there to support the team for what promises to be an exciting night of European football. Buy your tickets now or enjoy the game in the new 93:20 bar from £67 + VAT.
Hospitality packages also available from £130 + VAT. You can book now online, call our hospitality team on +44 161 444 1894 (option 1, option 2) or email hospitality@mcfc.co.uk.
Show your support for City U19s who also face Juventus, on the same day as the first team, in the UEFA Youth League. Kick-off is 5pm at the Academy Stadium. Tickets available now; Cityzens can redeem a free match ticket for this fixture now and non-Cityzens can purchase tickets.
