As Korean soccer struggles in international competitions, three 'Korean stars' are making their presence felt in different ways on the European stage.

The Washington Post evaluated on the 13th (Korea Standard Time) that 'the Republic of Korea has shown somewhat shaky performances in both the national team and club teams recently, but Kim Min-jae, Son Heung-min, and Lee Kang-in are undoubtedly achieving significant accomplishments in the heart of European soccer.'

The first player mentioned was Kim Min-jae, a key defender for Bayern Munich.

The Washington Post noted, 'Kim Min-jae is the greatest defender in the history of Korean soccer,' emphasizing his achievements of lifting two league titles on the elite European stage. Kim Min-jae led Napoli to the league championship in Serie A last season and won the Bundesliga title this season, gaining consecutive championship experience.

It further stated, 'The greatest symbol of Korean soccer remains Son Heung-min,' placing Son Heung-min at the center. As captain of Tottenham Hotspur, Son Heung-min is set to challenge for his first major trophy in the UEFA Europa League final against Manchester United.

The Washington Post reported on Son Heung-min's interview. He expressed, 'I need the final piece to complete the puzzle. I have been searching for that piece for over 10 years,' revealing his urgency for victory.

He added, 'When I return to Korea at the end of this season, I want to show the brightest smile to the fans,' expressing his determination.

Son Heung-min has already played against Liverpool in the UEFA Champions League final back in 2019. While he finished as a runner-up then, this time he is stepping onto the final stage as captain. Having returned from injury and made an appearance in last weekend's match, he is likely to start in the final.

In contrast, Lee Kang-in's season has been marked by a complicated flow. Having secured a starting spot early in the season with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), he has recently been sitting on the bench in important matches. He did not get a chance to play in the UCL semifinals against Arsenal. Although PSG has successfully reached the final, Lee Kang-in's position remains unclear.

The Washington Post reported that 'Lee Kang-in has recently been linked with transfers to numerous clubs in Europe, and Kim Min-jae is in a similar situation.' However, there are subtle differences in the situations of the two players. Kim Min-jae has expressed his intention to stay at Bayern Munich, saying, 'There is no reason to leave. However, we have to see what will happen,' while analysis suggests that a practical transfer for Lee Kang-in is imminent.

In fact, despite injuries and fatigue, Kim Min-jae has played as a regular in Munich's defense throughout the season. Locally, his market value is estimated to be around 45 million euros (73.6 billion won), and the atmosphere for his retention is gradually increasing. On the other hand, evaluations are rising that PSG does not see Lee Kang-in as a key resource, and possibilities of a transfer next season are continuously being discussed.

The Washington Post concluded, 'It is still uncertain which teams these three stars will wear uniforms for next season. However, at this moment, their sights are set on the European competition trophy, and their achievements will soon become a special gift for Korean fans.'

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