Is it really time to leave Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)? Lee Kang-in (24, PSG), who plays various positions, now finds himself in a situation where he must also play as a defensive midfielder. PSG manager Luis Enrique has hinted that he will deploy Lee Kang-in in the third line once again.

PSG will face Nantes in the away match for Round 30 of the 2024-2025 season at Stade de la Beaujoire in Nantes, France, at 3:45 a.m. on the 23rd (Korean time).

This is not a particularly important match for PSG, as they have already secured the league title. With an overwhelming record of 24 wins, 5 draws, and 77 points, PSG is 22 points ahead of second-placed Olympique de Marseille (55 points).

What remains is the challenge of an 'undefeated championship.' If PSG does not lose in their remaining five matches, they could achieve the first unbeaten championship in Ligue 1 history. Even in the 2015-2016 season, which set records for most wins (30 wins) and most points (96 points) with players like Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Thiago Silva, and Edinson Cavani, PSG recorded two losses.

Now, what is more important for PSG is the UEFA Champions League (UCL). PSG has reached the semifinals after defeating Liverpool in the Round of 16 and Aston Villa in the quarterfinals.

The semifinal opponent is another Premier League team, Arsenal. If PSG defeats Arsenal, they will challenge for their long-awaited first UCL title in club history. If they reach the final, they will face the winner between Barcelona and Inter Milan.

PSG has up to three UCL matches remaining. For manager Enrique, it's the right time to utilize players who have had fewer opportunities, while conserving the stamina of key players. The match against Nantes is also a good opportunity to boost the game sense of the substitute players.

This is why Lee Kang-in's starting appearance is anticipated. He was sidelined in the competition for starting positions since the winter transfer market but was included in the starting lineup against Le Havre on the 20th. However, manager Enrique assigned him a somewhat unfamiliar position. On this day, Lee Kang-in played as a defensive midfielder, marking his 50th match in Ligue 1.

Lee Kang-in's position change has become a topic of discussion even in France. Questions regarding Lee Kang-in arose during the press conference held ahead of the Nantes match. One reporter asked manager Enrique, "You placed Lee Kang-in in a very unusual position during the Le Havre match. How do you evaluate his performance? And can we expect to see him in that position again?"

Enrique's response was positive. He noted, "Yes, undoubtedly we will see Lee Kang-in playing in that position again. He possesses exceptional abilities in both short passes and long passes."

Moreover, Enrique commented, "Of course, that is not his ideal position. When Lee Kang-in plays as a defensive midfielder, defensive coverage is necessary," adding, "My goal is to allow all players, including him, to step away from their comfortable positions. I want players to explore their mental abilities, even if it is a position they do not prefer. That brings them a lot."

He also hinted at rotation for the Nantes match. Enrique said, "If I think it is important, I can implement rotation. Like all managers, I will choose the best 11 for the UCL. To achieve our goals, we need 16, 18, or 20 players. I want to connect as many players as possible."

In summary of Enrique's interview, it seems likely that Lee Kang-in will have to fulfill several positions in the league for a while. As PSG focuses on the UCL, there may be many opportunities for him as well.

However, the transformation into a defensive midfielder is not particularly welcome. This is evidence that there is no place for him in his main position, the attacking role. Having competed with players like Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Bradley Barcola, and Desire Doue, he may continue to fill experimental positions in the future.

Lee Kang-in has been embroiled in transfer rumors for several months now. It is suggested that PSG could sell him, given that he has lost his footing this summer. Although PSG rejected offers from various Premier League clubs, including Arsenal, during the last winter transfer market, circumstances changed rapidly.

Conversely, there are claims that the PSG board wants to extend Lee Kang-in's contract. This indicates a desire to keep him in the team, as he is a versatile asset capable of filling multiple positions. Speculation has also arisen that PSG may loan Lee Kang-in out after renewing his contract.

However, it is seriously worth considering whether remaining at PSG is beneficial for Lee Kang-in himself at this time. If he continues to act as a so-called 'patchwork' resource while moving back and forth in an undesired position, it could limit his growth. For Lee Kang-in, it means he cannot settle into one spot and is making sacrifices for the team.

If Lee Kang-in does not fit the PSG style that requires speed and breakthroughs, it may be a good decision for him to find a new team where he can showcase his strengths. A challenge in the Premier League is also possible, as Manchester United, Crystal Palace, and the Saudi Arabian Pro League are reportedly interested in him.

Meanwhile, Manchester United is on the lookout for creative attacking resources. According to 'Give Me Sport' in the UK, Manchester United has targeted five players, including two 'blockbuster' signings. Players to strengthen the defense and a partner for central midfielder Manuel Ugarte are among their targets.

Lee Kang-in is a player who can provide creative passes while moving between the flanks and the center. He can operate just below the striker or take responsibility on the wing within Ruben Amorim's three-back tactics. Previously, Give Me Sport stated, "Old Trafford needs a new attacker. Manchester United only has Amad Diallo and Bruno Fernandes as threats. Acquiring Lee Kang-in may be what is needed in the final third."

[Photo] PSG, RT Views social media.

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