"Lee Kang-in, a versatile player," world-renowned coach Simeone praises highly: "Will change position according to team needs" [Sangam Field]

*This content was translated by AI.

World-class coach Diego Simeone (Argentina), who has become Lee Kang-in's new mentor, praised the player as "a versatile athlete," giving him a thumbs-up.

During a press conference following Atlético Madrid's 1-3 loss to Manchester City (England) in the 2026 Coupang Play Series match held at Seoul World Cup Stadium on the 9th, Coach Simeone stated, "Lee Kang-in can play on the wing and also as a second striker, as he did today."

On this day, Lee Kang-in was initially excluded from the starting lineup but entered the match in the 18th minute of the second half when his team trailed 1-2, making his debut for Atlético Madrid. Previously, Lee Kang-in had primarily played on the right wing with his former club Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), but today he took a central forward position and became the focal point of the team's attack.

When asked whether this position would become Lee Kang-in's permanent role for the new season, Coach Simeone explained, "Since the player possesses such versatility (multi-player ability), his position can change according to the team's needs."

Simeone also noted that Lee Kang-in will need more time to improve his performance. Due to issues with documents related to military service, Lee Kang-in was unable to depart for Spain and only joined the team after arriving in Korea with the Atlético Madrid squad on the 7th.

Coach Simeone added, "Lee Kang-in has not been able to complete many training sessions. To play in matches, rhythm is essential, and finding that rhythm will inevitably require more time." He further stated, "This is a problem that applies not only to Lee Kang-in but to everyone. Ultimately, rhythm depends largely on physical condition."

Regarding the 1-3 loss, Simeone said, "The overall impression of the match was good. It was a game requiring high intensity," while adding, "In the end, the team that won is the one that won."

Meanwhile, before Coach Simeone's press conference, Enzo Maresca (Italy), manager of Manchester City, responded to questions from domestic media about their journey in Korea by saying, "Naturally, we are satisfied."

Arriving in Korea on the 4th, Manchester City defeated the K League All-Stars 3-1 in a friendly match on the 5th and then secured another 3-1 victory over Atlético Madrid today, concluding their pre-season schedule in Korea.

Coach Maresca remarked, "Just now, as I entered the press room, I thanked the event organizers," and added, "The fans welcomed us warmly. The schedule in Seoul was nothing short of excellent."

With today's match concluding their pre-season plans, both teams' squads will immediately head to Incheon International Airport to return home.

<© STARNEWS. All rights reserved. No reproduction or redistribution allowed.>

*This content was translated by AI.