Ki Sung-yong (35) has officially confirmed his departure from FC Seoul. The captain, who symbolized Seoul, directly informed the fans of the separation, and Pohang Steelers is being mentioned as a likely destination. Although there has not yet been a club-level announcement, the feelings conveyed directly by the individual essentially signify a farewell.

On the 25th, a video capturing Ki Sung-yong conversing with fans in the parking lot of Guri Champions Park, the training facility for Seoul, spread across multiple online communities and social media. It is known that this scene was also live-streamed through Instagram.

Ki Sung-yong said to the fans, "I am so sorry to make such a decision, and it was truly a lot of thought considering the fans. Still, I didn't want to end my career as a player in such a shabby way."

He added, "I didn't care how I was perceived from the outside. However, feeling a lack of trust even within the team was a decisive factor."

Previously, on the 24th, reports emerged that Ki Sung-yong could transfer to Pohang Steelers, creating a significant stir among K League fans. Debuting in Seoul and even progressing to the European stage, Ki returned to his former team in 2020 and had been a 'one-club man' ever since.

The news that Ki Sung-yong is leaving Seoul to wear the uniform of K League rival Pohang has brought a considerable shock in terms of symbolism and emotion.

Ki Sung-yong explained, "I determined that I was no longer helpful to this team, and I thought that having the transfer finalized quickly would be better for the team, so I made the decision."

He also added, "I would have liked to say goodbye to the fans for the last time at Seoul World Cup Stadium, but I am very sorry that it didn't happen. I am sorry to the fans for the possibility of not being able to properly say goodbye."

Ki Sung-yong negotiated with multiple clubs, not just Pohang. However, only Pohang showed interest. According to sources in the soccer community, "Ki Sung-yong has given up everything in order to participate in matches regarding salary and contract duration." Ultimately, on the 25th, Ki Sung-yong decided to leave the team through negotiations with the Seoul club.

Coincidentally, FC Seoul will face Pohang in the Hana Bank K League 1 2025 Round 21 at Seoul World Cup Stadium on the 29th. If Ki Sung-yong's transfer procedures are quickly finalized, it is possible that he will appear as a member of Pohang at Seoul World Cup Stadium after taking off the Seoul uniform.

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