In January, PSG opposed the transfer; "Lee Kang-in's 13-minute humiliation in the UCL shifted the mood" — Spanish media reveals the behind-the-scenes story of his move to Atletico.

*This content was translated by AI.

Lee Kang-in (25) has donned the Atletico Madrid jersey. Local reports indicate that being completely excluded from key matches for his former club, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), last season was the decisive factor in his decision to transfer.

On the 25th (Korean time), Spanish outlet 'As' reported on Lee Kang-in's official signing with Atletico Madrid and provided a detailed look into the background of the transfer.

The media stated, "Lee Kang-in was limited to just 13 minutes in UEFA Champions League (UCL) quarterfinals last season and missed both the semi-finals and final, which finally opened the door for his transfer this summer." It further explained that when Atletico's director Mateu Alemany personally traveled to Paris in January to pursue the signing, PSG opposed it, but the reduction in playing opportunities during the latter half of the season changed the mood.

Atletico announced on its official social media (SNS) today that it has signed Lee Kang-in to a five-year contract running until June 2031. He is the first Korean player in the club's history.

As reported, "With Antoine Griezmann leaving for Orlando City, the need arose for a player with individual tactical ability and dribbling skills, leading coach Diego Simeone to select Lee Kang-in as a tactical alternative."

The outlet also highly praised Lee Kang-in's abilities. It noted that he has "gained a new talented left foot," predicting his "precise kicking" and "dribbling power" would change the flow of matches. In particular, given the team's lack of alternatives on the right flank, it positively analyzed his versatility in playing both wide positions and central midfield roles across three lines.

Expectations were further heightened by his recent performances at the 2026 North American World Cup qualifiers. Although South Korea was eliminated in the group stage, he is credited with clearly demonstrating his individual skills across three matches, including an assist against the Czech Republic.

His familiarity with La Liga after playing for Valencia and Mallorca is also seen as a strength. The media added, "Atletico secured three Non-EU quota slots through squad restructuring, smoothly resolving Lee Kang-in's registration issues."

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*This content was translated by AI.