Even if Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) conquers Europe, there is no equity for Lee Kang-in (24, PSG).
On the 30th (Korea time), PSG won 1-0 against Arsenal in the first leg of the 2024-2025 UEFA Champions League semifinals, held at Emirates Stadium in London. With this victory in the away first leg, PSG has taken a favorable position for advancing to the finals.
Lee Kang-in waited on the bench but ultimately had no opportunity to play. Even though PSG was leading 1-0, it was crucial to score as many goals as possible. Coach Luis Enrique substituted Barcola, Gonzalo Hamus, and Zaire Emery in the second half, but did not give Lee Kang-in a chance.
PSG employed a 4-3-3 formation. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Ousmane Dembélé, and Désiré Doué led the attack. The midfield consisted of Fabian Ruiz, Vitinha, and João Neves. The defense featured Nuno Mendes, William Pacho, Marquinhos, and Achraf Hakimi, while Gianluigi Donnarumma guarded the goal. Lee Kang-in, who was listed on the substitute bench, did not step onto the field.
PSG struck first within 4 minutes of the match, taking control early on. Dembélé finished a left-footed shot following a pass from Kvaratskhelia, who broke through the left flank, shaking the net.
Despite being an away game, PSG showed a slight advantage with 52% possession. In terms of shots, PSG outshot Arsenal 11-10. PSG converted 1 of their 2 major opportunities into a goal.
Luis Enrique, PSG's coach, expressed his ambitions during an official press conference on the 28th. He noted, "I don't care at all if everyone criticizes me. I watched the Arsenal match, and we are a more complete team. We will rewrite history."
With PSG not using Lee Kang-in in important matches, transfer rumors are expected to resurface. Lee Kang-in was on the bench during the match against Nice on the 26th but had no opportunity to play. He has not had any chances since appearing for 73 minutes against Le Havre on the 19th, raising concerns about his match fitness.
Lee Kang-in appears to be excluded from coach Enrique's tactical plans. 'Foot Mercato' reported, "Lee Kang-in is under contract with PSG until 2028. However, since his playing time has been irregular, transfer rumors have arisen. Various rumors exist that PSG may transfer Lee Kang-in this summer."
British outlet 'GiveMeSport' reported, "Lee Kang-in from PSG has not had much opportunity to start this season. Manchester United is interested in acquiring Lee Kang-in and has listed the Korean midfielder as a potential target. PSG is considering a transfer fee of £40 million (approximately 75.7 billion won) for Lee Kang-in."
Premier League teams have consistently shown interest. Other Premier League teams, including Newcastle and Crystal Palace, are also interested in Lee Kang-in. If there is no room for him at PSG, a transfer is the only option.
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