"Ba Jun-ho, time is running out" — cold-blooded Stoke even weighs his transfer value... A cold front forecasted

*This content was translated by AI.

South Korean midfielder Ba Jun-ho (23, Stoke City) is embroiled in release rumors. It appears highly likely he will leave the club this summer.

On the 28th (Korean time), the UK-based Stoke Trent Live reported, "Stoke faces a crucial summer transfer window where decisions must be made across all positions." The outlet added, "While relegation was not a major concern, the possibility of a promotion challenge vanished long ago. Maintaining motivation throughout a season that saw the team remain stuck in the mid-to-lower table was not easy."

Under manager Mark Robins, Stoke finished 17th in the league this season with 15 wins, 10 draws, and 20 losses (55 points). The season was as bland and unremarkable as "colorless and odorless," with a significant gap not only from the relegation zone but also from the upper echelons. Even though they avoided the worst-case scenario of relegation, the result is undoubtedly disappointing for Stoke, which had aimed for a promotion challenge.

Ultimately, Stoke has determined that change is necessary and has signaled a major squad overhaul for the next season. According to reports, Manager Robins emphasized that "there is much to do" as he restructures the team squad. It is, in essence, a cold front. The media explained, "This means simultaneously conducting farewell procedures and new player recruitment."

South Korean national team midfielder Ba Jun-ho also appears set to leave the club. Regarding Ba Jun-ho, the media stated, "He showed excellent work rate for most of his playing time, but failed to demonstrate the football intelligence needed to fully maximize his technical skills and athletic abilities. Stoke needs a 'number 10' who can record goals and assists," delivering a cold assessment.

In short, the issue is a lack of attacking contributions. Even this season, Ba Jun-ho appeared in 41 league matches but managed only two goals and three assists.

Ba Jun-ho, who played for K League 1's Daejeon Hana Citizen, joined Stoke in 2023, making his debut on the European stage. He was handed the number 10 jersey and received high expectations. Although he remained a key player for the team after his transfer, he appears to have failed to leave a strong impact. Stoke is expected to rebuild the team around other players after parting ways with Ba Jun-ho.

Stoke has even calculated how to maximize Ba Jun-ho's transfer value to secure substantial profits. The upcoming 2026 North American World Cup could be a significant factor. The media also noted, "It will be interesting to see how Ba Jun-ho's next steps unfold. If he delivers star-level performances in the upcoming World Cup, it will be a positive outcome for everyone."

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*This content was translated by AI.