"Lee Kang-in 'Messi-like passes,' a tremendous weapon" Local expectations already exploding

*This content was translated by AI.

With Lee Kang-in's (25) transfer to Atlético (AT) Madrid in Spain finally confirmed, locals are already placing great expectations on the "Lee Kang-in effect." Praise has piled up that his sharp passes toward goal, like those of "the God of Football" Lionel Messi (Inter Miami), will become a tremendous weapon for the team and his teammates.

Atlético Stats, which reports on Atlético Madrid news, stated on the 26th (Korean time) that "Lee Kang-in has officially been announced as an AT Madrid player," adding, "Anyone who hasn't seen Lee Kang-in in a while will likely notice significant changes between his Mallorca days and his current self."

The outlet noted, "In fact, transfer rumors linking Lee Kang-in to Atlético Madrid had already surfaced during his time at Mallorca under coach Javier Aguirre. At that time, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), backed by stronger determination and greater financial resources, secured his signing." It further recalled, "During his Mallorca days, Lee Kang-in was a very aggressive player who enjoyed dribbling. While playing as a traditional left winger from the left flank, he also cut inside to create differences."

However, the outlet analyzed that his style changed after moving to PSG. Atlético Stats remarked, "Under PSG coach Luis Enrique's system, he showed clear growth in team play. If at Mallorca he was a player who had to solve problems on his own, at PSG he primarily played as an attacking midfielder or central midfielder positioned mainly on the right."

The outlet continued, "In modern football, role is more important than position. The same applies to Lee Kang-in. How he understands football and what role he performs matters far more than where he plays. This will be the most crucial factor enabling Lee Kang-in to achieve rapid success under coach Simeone."

The outlet particularly highlighted clear distinctions from existing resources capable of playing on the right flank. It stated, "While Pablo Barrios, Marcos Llorente, and Julián Simeone's speed exerts tremendous power in direct duels, they fall short when game situations become complex." It added, "Lee Kang-in may be slightly behind in direct situations but can inject diverse creativity by utilizing his superior skills in curved movements. This is especially true when facing mostly defensive teams."

The outlet also projected that his creative yet sharp passing ability would greatly benefit the team. It noted, "Whether at PSG or with the South Korean national team, Lee Kang-in effectively utilizes players at long distances. He accurately connects not only to stationary players but also to those penetrating spaces behind the defense." It highlighted, "Those passes he delivers from near the right corner of the penalty box, often called 'Messi passes,' can become a tremendous weapon for players like Alejandro Grimaldo, Alex Baena, and Ademola Lookman."

It further added, "Lee Kang-in is a player who can provide significant help to his team in every match and has entered the prime of his career. (Through his PSG transfer) his play has matured, and he has internalized the culture of winning teams. Now, he will likely want to prove his abilities and growth thus far as a consistent starter at a big club."

Meanwhile, Lee Kang-in completed three seasons with PSG before transferring to AT Madrid on the 25th. The transfer fee is up to €40 million (approximately 66.6 billion won), with a contract running until 2031 for five years. Lee Kang-in will inherit the number 7 jersey, worn by club legend Antoine Griezmann.

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*This content was translated by AI.