"No need to stay up all night to watch Lee Kang-in's matches" ATM adjusts match time to 9 p.m. KST for Korean weekend nights, "K-chimaek forcibly summoned"

*This content was translated by AI.View Original

Atletico Madrid is set to make its first daytime appearance of the season, aligning with the "prime time slot" for Korean football fans.

Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo reported on the 16th (KST), "Atletico has been assigned a 2 p.m. kickoff for the first time this season," adding, "The club is reaping significant benefits from Asian marketing thanks to Lee Kang-in's arrival."

Atletico will play an away match against Girona on the 17th. The local kickoff time is 2 p.m. The earliest matches Atletico has played this season were against Real Madrid, Alaves, and Athletic Club, all scheduled for 4:15 p.m.

This time slot is a huge boon for the club's marketing efforts. 2 p.m. in Spain corresponds to 9 p.m. in Korea. It is the so-called "prime time" for watching football across Asia.

The outlet analyzed, "Atletico's brand value in the Asian market has surged since Lee Kang-in's signing." It further noted, "BTS member Suga took the stage wearing the new 2026-2027 season jersey before Lee Kang-in's official debut announcement, sparking buzz. The Korea tour against Manchester City and Lee Kang-in's unveiling ceremony held at Seoul Gwanghwamun Square also boosted his popularity."

The article explains that local perceived popularity is immense. The outlet stated, "Korean fans visiting home ground Metropolitano to see Lee Kang-in in person are increasing day by day. Demand for Lee Kang-in jerseys across Asia is also explosive."

His performance on the pitch is equally dazzling. He has proven with his skills that he is not merely a "marketing signing." Lee Kang-in has made 10 appearances this season, recording 2 goals and 1 assist. He shone in his most recent match, the second leg of the UEFA Champions League (UCL) league phase against Manchester United on the 14th. In the first minute of the first half, he delivered a sharp lob pass from below the halfway line, perfectly setting up Pablo Barrios' opening goal and leading the team to its first UCL victory of the season.

The outlet reported, "He is performing brilliantly, showcasing the highest number of high-intensity impact actions among the entire squad."

Local fans are also completely captivated by Lee Kang-in. The outlet praised, "Colchoneros (Atletico fans) who have watched the first few matches praise Lee Kang-in's outstanding performance," adding, "He has firmly established himself as a key player essential to the club's new project."

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*This content was translated by AI.View Original