*This content was translated by AI.
'Korea's football prospect' Kim Ye-geon (18, Crvena Zvezda) experienced an unusual situation where he was sent back to the bench just 19 minutes after being substituted in. Serbian local media also expressed doubt about his sudden re-substitution.
Kim Ye-geon was brought on as a substitute in the 75th minute of the 2026–2027 Serbian SuperLiga match against FK Radnicki Surdulica, held in Surdulica, Serbia, on the 11th (Korean time). This was his second appearance since making his European debut for Crvena Zvezda against FK Žemjan.
Kim Ye-geon lined up on the left flank and actively participated in attacks, but failed to convert many opportunities. Passes from the wing were not effectively utilized by teammates, or passes were cut off, preventing smooth offensive development.
There were also missed chances. In the 77th minute of the second half, he connected a cross from the flank with a header in what was essentially a no-mark situation, but the ball did not make proper contact with his head, missing a scoring opportunity.
However, an unexpected situation occurred. Crvena Zvezda coach Albert Riera called Kim Ye-geon back into the game and brought on Vladimir Ljucic in the 74th minute of the second half. It was only 19 minutes after Kim had stepped onto the field.
Since it is uncommon for a player who has been substituted in to be substituted out again, local attention focused on this incident.
Serbian media outlet Meridian Sport also highlighted this scene separately. The outlet reported, "An unusual situation occurred for the Korean player," adding, "Coach Riera brought him onto the field but substituted him out just 19 minutes later."
The reason for the re-substitution was not clearly disclosed. Local media also raised questions. Meridian Sport explained, "It is unknown whether it was due to an injury or if Kim failed to adapt to the artificial turf."
In fact, on this day, the artificial turf acted as another variable for Crvena Zvezda players. The outlet noted, "Impatience began to show among Crvena Zvezda players," and added, "Crvena Zvezda has often slipped against Radnicki in recent years during away matches in Surdulica."
It further pointed out, "The artificial turf also created additional problems."
Meanwhile, Radnicki used a tight defense to effectively block Crvena Zvezda's attacks. Meridian Sport also evaluated, "It was evident that Zoran Rendulić, Radnicki's coach, prepared his team very well for the match against Crvena Zvezda."
Ultimately, Crvena Zvezda drew 0-0 with Radnicki. This was the first time Crvena Zvezda, which had been on a winning streak since the start of the SuperLiga season this year, failed to secure points. Currently leading the league this season, Crvena Zvezda has recorded six wins and one draw (19 points).
Kim Ye-geon is still just 18 years old and considered a promising prospect for Korean football. Born in 2008, he has been recognized as a "football prodigy" since childhood. After progressing through the Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors youth system, he made his professional debut this year and quickly established his presence by scoring his first goal just two games into his pro career.
Later, while still a high school student, he signed a formal professional contract with Jeonbuk and moved to Serbian powerhouse Crvena Zvezda through the summer transfer market, making his way onto the European stage.
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*This content was translated by AI.
