'Seoul legend' Ki Sung-yong (36, FC Seoul) is expected to wear the Pohang Steelers uniform if he passes the medical test on July 3. FC Seoul fans are angry at the Seoul club for not treating him as a legend.
A Pohang official said on the 26th, 'Only the medical test procedure remains on July 3. If there are no issues, an official announcement regarding Ki Sung-yong's recruitment will be made that afternoon.'
Ki Sung-yong has been regarded as a 'living legend' in Seoul.
Therefore, it is shocking news for Seoul fans regarding his transfer.
Ki Sung-yong, who made his professional debut in Seoul in 2006, played for nearly four years until leaving for Celtic at the end of 2009. His return to the domestic stage also took place in Seoul. He returned in 2020 and played as a starting midfielder.
His K League career record includes 198 appearances, 14 goals, and 19 assists. This record was set while he was with Seoul.
However, Ki Sung-yong has had a long stretch without playing due to injury this season. Nevertheless, he was preparing for his return by participating in recent practice games. Amid this, rumors of his transfer to Pohang emerged. The process progressed rapidly, and it is essentially a situation where only his signature is left.
While fans were only waiting for Ki Sung-yong's return, they couldn't help but wonder why he suddenly chose Pohang after hearing news that was 180 degrees different in just a day or two.
Ki Sung-yong shared the background of his decision to transfer.
He explained through his social media account, 'Not long ago, I heard from the coach during a conversation that I was not part of the team's plans moving forward. I began to think, 'It's time for me to retire,' and told the coach that I would retire. He said, 'I respect your decision.' However, my family and the football people I trust and rely on dissuaded me, saying that I still had more to give as a player, and in the midst of the confusion, I took a few days to reflect on myself. I realized that I still have the desire to play and that I can still contribute significantly. While waiting for a team that needs me, Pohang coach Park Tae-ha reached out first and said, 'I need you.' That's why I decided to transfer.'
Ki Sung-yong expressed to the fans, 'I know that you will be very surprised by this sudden news and find it hard to accept. When I returned to Korea, I never imagined a player career away from Seoul, so this situation still feels unfamiliar to me. Thinking of the Seoul fans truly breaks my heart, and I still can't sleep well. I feel sorry that this situation seems to have arisen because of my shortcomings.'
Seoul fans, who lost a 'legend' overnight, were furious. The supporter group 'Guardian' said, 'The club has consistently treated team legends in a one-sided manner,' and added, 'This time, they have deceived the fans again.'
Ki Sung-yong's transfer process is expected to be finalized on July 3. As a result, he will not be able to participate in the K League 1, Round 21 match between Seoul and Pohang, which will be held on the 29th at the Seoul World Cup Stadium.
'Guardian' has announced a 'boycott' of support for the match against Pohang.
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