European champion Lee Kang-in (24, Paris Saint-Germain) has become an object of envy among his national team colleagues.
PSG played against Inter Milan in the single-match final of the 2024-2025 UEFA Champions League on Dec. 1 (Korea time) at the Allianz Arena in Munich, Germany, winning 5-0.
This season, PSG achieved a 'quadruple,' winning the French Ligue 1, Trofee des Champions, and Coupe de France. Lee Kang-in was included in the final match substitute list but did not play for a second. He also received a championship medal but had a bittersweet ceremony since he could not participate in the final match.
After finishing all schedules at PSG, Lee Kang-in joined the national team. He is expected to play a key role in the national team against Iraq and Kuwait.
Lee Kang-in's Champions League victory is a hot topic within the national team. Close friend Oh Hyun-kyu joked, "It’s a blessing to be able to see a European champion up close. Winning the Champions League is something that some cannot even dream of. As a friend, I respect Kang-in. There are times when he shows off so much that it can be hard to watch."
Although he won the championship, Lee Kang-in's position at PSG is narrow. Trade rumors continue to arise. Italy's Corriere dello Sport reported on Dec. 8, "There is a possibility that Lee Kang-in may swap positions with Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. PSG is persistently asking Napoli for Lee Kang-in," highlighting the possibility of a transfer to Italy.
Coincidentally, Kvaratskhelia's arrival at PSG has shaken Lee Kang-in's position. Kvaratskhelia played a pivotal role in winning alongside Kim Min-jae during his time at Napoli. He transferred to PSG in January for a transfer fee of €80 million. He quickly secured a starting position at the big club and made a decisive contribution to PSG's treble. He also excelled in the Champions League final.
First, Lee Kang-in is expected to focus on the national team before exploring a new team in the summer transfer market.
[OSEN]