Lee Kang-in: "Players are reflecting deeply" — The grim reality of Korean football, where even a debut match fails to bring smiles [Seongsan Field]

*This content was translated by AI.

"The current state of Korean football is not as good as it should be…"

This was supposed to be a moment for Lee Kang-in (25) to celebrate and receive congratulations on his debut with Spanish powerhouse Atlético Madrid. Yet, he could not smile freely. It was due to the unfortunate reality facing Korean football. Amid soaring distrust and anger toward the national team and the Korea Football Association, Lee Kang-in appeared cautious even in urging support for himself and Atlético Madrid. His mention of "players reflecting deeply" and his appeal for greater interest and affection toward the national team and Korean football fully reflected the painful situation currently confronting Korean football.

Speaking to reporters in the mixed zone after playing his debut match for Atlético Madrid during the 2026 Coupang Play Series against Manchester City at Seoul World Cup Stadium on the 9th, Lee Kang-in said, "As everyone knows, the current state of Korean football is not good. Players are thinking deeply and reflecting extensively because we want to bring joy to all football fans in this situation. We will do our utmost to show better performances going forward, so we sincerely appreciate your continued interest and love."

Today's match marked Lee Kang-in's first game since leaving Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) to join Atlético Madrid. Over 50,000 Korean fans filled the stadium to witness his Atlético debut. Nevertheless, Lee Kang-in could not avoid addressing the dark chapters of Korean football, from the national team's failure to advance past the group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, Central America, and the Caribbean, to various administrative controversies surrounding the Korea Football Association.

Moreover, Lee Kang-in's remarks were not made in response to reporters' questions but were proactively shared by him while standing before the media in the mixed zone. This indicates that both Lee Kang-in and those within the national team are seriously recognizing the current situation facing Korean football and feel a strong sense of responsibility as players.

Lee Kang-in added, "It's not just me. Players abroad and those competing in the K-League are all doing their utmost and constantly striving for the sake of South Korean football. Please do not focus only on the negative aspects; we hope you will also recognize the many positive elements."

Only after responding to reporters' questions did Lee Kang-in shift the conversation away from the sorrowful state of Korean football to discuss his new challenges and determination at Atlético Madrid.

Regarding his new role in the team, Lee Kang-in stated, "I am comfortable playing in any position. I believe it is sufficient to do my best wherever I can contribute. Rather than focusing on personal comfort, I think it is better to play where I can be most helpful to the team. As I have always said, regardless of the position, contributing to the team's success is the most important thing."

He continued, "Coach Diego Simeone wants us to play aggressively. He has emphasized this from the very beginning. His clear instructions help me understand exactly how I should play as a player. My teammates have been very supportive, and I am adapting well."

Returning to Spain after spending his childhood abroad and embarking on his professional football journey, Lee Kang-in reiterated his resolve to become a player who contributes to the team.

He said, "I am truly happy to return to Spain. At every moment, I strive to give my best and show good performances, always aiming to be helpful to the team. Whether playing for Atlético Madrid or the national team, I will continue to work hard in this way. I sincerely appreciate your continued interest and love," he added with a smile.

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*This content was translated by AI.