"Lee Kang-in cannot replace Griezmann" Spanish media delivers cold analysis: 'Why?'

*This content was translated by AI.

Lee Kang-in (25), who has inherited the number 7 jersey of Atletico (AT) Madrid legend Antoine Griezmann (35, Orlando City) and is receiving even greater expectations and attention, will not be able to replace Griezmann according to local analysis. However, this analysis focused less on the class difference between Lee Kang-in and Griezmann and more on their differing styles and the resulting differences in utilization possibilities.

On the 18th (Korean time), Spanish media Marca stated, "Lee Kang-in possesses the talent to transform Atletico Madrid's attack, but he cannot replace Griezmann." It added, "While Lee Kang-in, who specializes in creative play, can take on part of the creative role that Griezmann handled, Griezmann was a complete player who excelled not only in creativity but also in defensive involvement, game understanding, goal-scoring ability, and tactical leadership."

It further noted, "The Lee Kang-in signed by Atletico Madrid is not a new Griezmann. Such a player likely does not exist." It concluded, "While Lee Kang-in may be responsible for the team's offensive buildup, controlling the pace of the game, delivering final passes, and handling set pieces, he will not be able to single-handedly replace the influence Griezmann demonstrated over several years."

Instead, the media emphasized that Lee Kang-in's signing should be understood not as a second Griezmann, but from an entirely different perspective.

Marca explained, "Lee Kang-in is clearly a different type compared to most of Atletico Madrid's attackers. He excels more in creating opportunities than finishing, and in linking play rather than vertical advancement. He is a technically skilled player who can significantly enrich the team's overall performance." It added, "Lee Kang-in is the type who receives the ball between lines, connects various zones, accumulates assists, and maintains the flow of attack."

The media further highlighted, "Lee Kang-in's greatest strength lies in his ability to perform at his best even under pressure in the most difficult spaces — specifically between opposing lines." It noted that he can receive the ball despite rough pressing from opponents, maintain possession using a low center of gravity, and quickly find solutions. The outlet added, "Lee Kang-in's biggest asset is his ability to successfully execute forward passes even in difficult situations. This is particularly valuable for Atletico Madrid, which has often lost offensive momentum after regaining possession."

It continued, "Rather than being a typical winger who constantly attempts dribbling runs, Lee Kang-in is closer to a winger-type midfielder who improves play just before shooting. His football core lies not in advancing with dribbles but in drawing defenders in, linking up with teammates, and breaking through defenses with passes." It concluded, "This is precisely what sets him apart from other attackers at Atletico Madrid."

Marca stated, "Lee Kang-in is a player of an entirely different style. He can elevate the technical level of the attacking line and provide creativity. He is also a player who can offer solutions when more refined football is needed rather than just speed." It added, "Lee Kang-in's potential should be understood not as replacing Griezmann but from another perspective. His arrival is better viewed not as one player replacing another (Griezmann), but as part of an evolutionary process for Atletico Madrid's entire attacking line."

Meanwhile, Lee Kang-in, who held his official signing ceremony in Madrid, Spain the previous day, is expected to make his official debut for Atletico Madrid as early as 4 a.m. on the 20th at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano Stadium in Madrid, Spain, in the opening match of Round 1 of the 2026–2027 Spanish professional football La Liga against Malaga.

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

*This content was translated by AI.