'Lee Kang-in vs Liverpool' Release Imminent, UCL Start Almost Certain... Coach Simeone: "No. 9 Strikers Essentially Decimated"

*This content was translated by AI.

Lee Kang-in (25) is in an atmosphere where his dream-stage start is virtually confirmed. With Atletico Madrid facing Liverpool in a crucial match, coach Diego Simeone expressed concerns over the consecutive departures and poor physical condition of the team's frontline strikers.

Lee Kang-in's club, Atletico, will face Liverpool at Anfield in Liverpool, UK, on the 10th at 4 a.m. (Korean time) in Round 1 of the League Phase of the 2026–2027 UEFA Champions League (UCL).

Earlier, Spanish media outlet 'AS' reported on coach Simeone's official press conference held at Anfield. On this day, Coach Simeone drew a clear line regarding the availability of No. 9 strikers.

Coach Simeone stated, "Alexander Sørloth is currently unable to play due to injury. He is an important player who can fill roles whether it's 90 minutes, 60 minutes, or 20 minutes, so we hope for his swift return."

Regarding Jonathan David, recently signed to the team, he added, "He has not been with the team long and did not play in the previous match either."

On Julián Álvarez, who has been linked with a transfer to FC Barcelona, Simeone said, "He is still in the process of developing. He does not appear ready to start," explaining that "he may be brought on depending on the flow of the game to provide support." This effectively means all professional frontline striker resources are excluded from the starting lineup.

Consequently, Lee Kang-in, who can play across all attacking positions, has emerged as a strong candidate for the starting lineup. Excluding his debut match against Málaga and the opening game, Lee started in all three subsequent La Liga matches, solidifying his position. He scored one goal against Málaga and provided one assist against Sevilla, successfully settling into the team, and recently has consistently formed a striking duo with Ademola Lookman.

Coach Simeone remarked, "As a coach, I imagine countless scenarios in my mind: attacking, entering the box, scoring goals, but reality unfolds on the pitch," adding, "Once the match begins, unexpected things happen."

Regarding the previous defeat to Athletic Bilbao, he emphasized, "It was not a lack of motivation but a loss due to a lack of concentration. We will face an intense start in a magnificent stadium with an unbelievable atmosphere, and we will see if we can show our resilience."

On opposing manager Andoni Iraola of Liverpool, Simeone noted, "When a new manager takes charge, they naturally bring immense passion. In that sense, where that passion is conveyed to the players, Manager Iraola holds an advantage over me." He further stated, "Manager Iraola is trying to implant the tactical identity he showed with his previous teams and is actively involving all players," maintaining a vigilant stance.

He also added, "This season, there are many new players on our team, and we are in the process of adapting due to David's late arrival and the delayed return of players who were called up for national duty. We will adjust step by step."

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*This content was translated by AI.