Lee Kang-in (24, Paris Saint-Germain) is having a challenging second year at PSG. In a situation where he has already lost his position, absurd criticism has emerged.

France's 'Le 10 Sport' reported on the 23rd (Korean time) that "Pierre Ménès strongly criticized that PSG's signing of Lee Kang-in was a terrible choice."

On the same day, PSG drew 1-1 in an away match against Nantes at Stade de la Beaujoire in the 29th round of Ligue 1 2024-2025. PSG, who had already secured the championship, continued their unbeaten streak of 30 games with 24 wins and 6 draws.

Lee Kang-in also started the match and provided one assist. Playing as a right winger, he assisted Vitinha's opening goal with a brilliant pass in the 33rd minute, marking his sixth assist of the season. It was his first point in attack in about two months.

On that day, Lee Kang-in left the field after being substituted for Gonzalo Hamus in the 63rd minute. He recorded 1 assist, 1 shot, and 2 chances created in 63 minutes on the pitch. Football statistics agency 'Footmob' awarded Lee Kang-in a rating of 7.8, the third highest at PSG. However, PSG conceded a goal in the 38th minute of the second half, missing out on victory.

Nevertheless, French journalist Ménès poured out harsh criticism towards Lee Kang-in. Le 10 Sport reported that "What if PSG signed a flawed contract? This is precisely Ménès's thought about the signing of Lee Kang-in. In his perspective as a former reporter for 'L'Équipe', Lee Kang-in is worth 0 points at PSG. Ménès also honestly spoke about the controversy around Lee Kang-in's Asian marketing."

As a columnist, Ménès claimed through his YouTube channel, "I wonder if Lee Kang-in sells more jerseys than the salary PSG pays him? I refer to him as 'terrible Lee Kang-in'. I do not think he is a bad player. However, PSG is too high-level of a team for him."

He further criticized, "(Players like Lee Kang-in) could perform better at clubs with less pressure than PSG. But I have never seen Lee Kang-in dribble. I think it’s a recruitment mistake."

He even downplayed Lee Kang-in's assist in the Nantes match as lucky. Ménès stated, "Vitinha received the ball thrown into the air by Lee Kang-in and scored. It was recognized as an assist by Lee Kang-in. Such occurrences are rare," suggesting that Lee only managed to add one assist thanks to Vitinha.

Currently, Lee Kang-in is caught up in transfer rumors due to being sidelined in PSG's internal competition. Until the first half of the season, he secured playing time by covering various roles from a false nine to wingers and central midfielders. While it was regretful that he could not firmly establish himself in one position, he has received praise from coach Luis Enrique.

However, immediately after the winter transfer market closed, the atmosphere changed. After Khvicha Kvaratskhelia joined the team, Lee Kang-in became a bench member. Ousmane Dembélé's outstanding performance has secured him a spot as the new striker, and Désiré Doué and Bradley Barcola are also trusted by coach Enrique. In midfield, Vitinha, João Neves, and Fabian Ruiz are being prioritized.

Naturally, transfer rumors have emerged. France's 'Sport' claimed, "Lee Kang-in was signed to solidify his position in PSG's midfield, but has not become an indispensable player. The PSG board is considering selling Lee Kang-in to make room for new reinforcements. It remains uncertain whether they will choose a loan or a transfer to revive him, as he has not found a proper place in Paris."

France's 'Foot 01' also reported that "Lee Kang-in has not firmly established himself as a regular in the coach's mind and desires more playing time. Such a situation cannot last long. It is now time for Lee Kang-in to leave. A transfer seems inevitable," noting that Crystal Palace and Manchester United are interested in Lee Kang-in.

Moreover, Lee Kang-in is losing his position. In a long-awaited start against Le Havre, he played not in his familiar position but as a defensive midfielder. Coach Enrique even hinted at similar utilization methods in the future.

When asked if Lee Kang-in could play as a defensive midfielder again, Coach Enrique responded, "Yes. There is no doubt that we will see Lee Kang-in play in that position again. He possesses excellent skills in handling the ball, both in short passes and long passes."

He also stated, "Of course, that is not the ideal position for Lee Kang-in. When he plays as a defensive midfielder, defensive support is necessary. My goal is to make sure that all players, including him, are kept out of their comfort zones. I hope players explore their mental capabilities, even if it's a position they don't like. It brings many benefits to them."

If things continue as they are, there is a possibility that Lee Kang-in will not find his place at PSG and will only serve as a backup in various positions. It may be a good choice to take on a new challenge this summer, as transfer rumors in the Premier League are rising. Continuing local criticism and the coach's random utilization further add to his troubles.

[Photo] ⓒGettyimages (Unauthorized reproduction and redistribution prohibited), RT Views, Lee Kang-in, Pierre Ménès, PSG social media.

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