Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) midfielder Lee Kang-in (24) made a strong impression by scoring a decisive goal despite limited playing time at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. With this tournament expanded to 32 teams for the first time in history, Lee became the first Korean player to score on this stage.
On the 16th (Korean time), PSG beat Atlético Madrid 4-0 in their first match of Group B of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup at Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, California, USA.
Lee Kang-in was substituted in for Fabian Ruiz in the 72nd minute and scored the team’s fourth goal by converting a penalty kick during stoppage time in the second half.
Although Lee only played for about 20 minutes that day, he had a significant impact on the game. After coming on, he led stable passing flows and contributed with devoted tackles in defensive situations. He demonstrated calm finishing ability by pushing the ball into the net past goalkeeper Jan Oblak during a penalty opportunity earned just before the end of the match.
The soccer statistics site 'Footmob' rated Lee Kang-in with a score of 7.6, and 'WhoScored.com' also gave him a score of 6.89, recognizing his presence even within a short time.
PSG achieved a treble this season, winning the French Ligue 1, French Cup, and UEFA Champions League, and the Club World Cup was an extension of that momentum.
Head coach Luis Enrique lined up in a 4-3-3 formation. Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Gonçalo Ramos, and Désiré Doué formed the attacking line, while Fabian Ruiz, Vitinha, and João Neves were positioned in midfield. Lee started on the bench.
PSG took control of the match from the early stages. In the 19th minute of the first half, Fabian Ruiz scored the opening goal, and during stoppage time of the first half, Vitinha's stunning dribble led to the second goal. After Atlético's Clément Lenglet was sent off in the second half, PSG secured a numerical advantage, and after a goal from Séni Mayulu in the 42nd minute, Lee's finish contributed to a solid victory.
Lee Kang-in has played a total of 30 matches this season, scoring 6 goals and providing 6 assists. However, since mid-season, he has primarily been used as a substitute, resulting in a somewhat reduced presence. He started in only 4 out of 11 matches in the Champions League.
Amid this trend, recent transfer rumors surrounding Lee Kang-in have intensified. SSC Napoli and some teams in the Premier League have shown interest, and Italian media outlet 'Area Napoli' reported that Giovanni Manna, Director General, is in direct contact with PSG.
Napoli is considering Lee as an additional resource after bringing Kevin De Bruyne from Manchester City. His tactical flexibility, capable of playing both in midfield and on the flanks, is an attractive option for Napoli.
This Club World Cup is the first tournament significantly expanded by FIFA from the previous format of 7 teams. Lee Kang-in is recorded as the first to score among the total 27 Korean players participating in this tournament. Kim Min-jae (Bayern Munich), Kim Gi-hee (Seattle), Park Yong-woo (Al Ain), and representatives from Ulsan HD are also competing in the tournament.
Lee Kang-in's goal carries symbolism beyond just a simple score. It serves as a stepping stone for him to re-establish himself at PSG while simultaneously showcasing his market value during the summer transfer window. Even though he was substituted in, he marked a critical moment and heightened expectations for the new season.
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