Lee Kang-in (PSG) recalled his former coach Yoo Sang-cheol, who opened the path of soccer for him, on Teacher's Day. He expressed his ongoing respect and affection for someone who holds memories from his childhood.
PSG released a commemorative video for Teacher's Day through their official channel on the 15th (Korea time). In the video, Lee Kang-in expressed gratitude for the help he received from many coaches since childhood, particularly mentioning Yoo Sang-cheol, the former Incheon United coach, as a special figure.
He emphasized, "I have received much teaching from all the coaches," adding, "Among them, Yoo Sang-cheol, who was with me during my 'Flying Soccer' days, is the most special to me." He concluded the video with a message saying, "I will continue to work harder, learn more, and create better memories."
The connection between Lee Kang-in and Coach Yoo Sang-cheol began in 2007 on the entertainment program 'Flying Soccer.' At that time, seven-year-old Lee first learned soccer under Coach Yoo and the coach immediately recognized his talent. Following this, Lee advanced to the youth team of Spain's Valencia in 2011 based on Coach Yoo's recommendation.
Lee Kang-in's growth in Spain progressed rapidly. He made his professional debut in the Copa del Rey in 2018 and debuted in La Liga the following year. After his time at Mallorca, he moved to the prestigious French club PSG in 2023, solidifying his presence on the European stage. To date, he has played 81 matches for PSG, scoring 11 goals and providing 11 assists.
PSG, to which Lee Kang-in belongs, has already conquered Ligue 1 and the Trophée des Champions, and it has also secured a spot in the UEFA Champions League final, moving towards the pinnacle of European football. Lee is aiming for his second Champions League victory as a Korean, following Park Ji-sung, in the final against Inter Milan on June 1.
This interview is particularly special because Lee Kang-in continues to remember his coach Yoo Sang-cheol. Coach Yoo is a legend who scored in both the 1998 France World Cup and the 2002 Korea-Japan World Cup while active on the Korean national soccer team and also led Incheon United.
He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2018 and lived through treatment, ultimately passing away on June 7, 2021. Even during his illness, Coach Yoo expressed deep affection for his disciple, stating, "If my health recovers, I would like to go to Spain to watch Lee Kang-in's training."
Last year, on the anniversary of Coach Yoo, Lee Kang-in left a message on his social media saying, "I miss my respected teacher," and this year, on Teacher's Day, he expressed the same sentiment again with gratitude.
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