(VIDEO) Best of Kang In-Lee's Year
2024 has been a year of consolidation and ups and downs for Kang In-Lee, the young South Korean talent striving to make his mark with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and the South Korea national team.
A Promising Start at PSG:
Kang In-Lee started the year strong with PSG, proving that his transfer from RCD Mallorca was well worth it. In his first matches, he was named Man of the Match in the Trophée des Champions final, where he scored the opening goal in the victory over Toulouse. This moment not only confirmed his adaptation to the French team but also marked a personal milestone in his career, earning his first title with the club.
Challenges and Criticism:
However, the season was not all smooth sailing for Kang. After a brilliant start, he faced periods of inconsistency that drew criticism from both the French media and some fans. His Ligue 1 performance earned a Sofascore rating of 7.41, but there were matches where his influence on the game seemed to wane, particularly after the AFC Asian Cup, where an altercation with Son Heung-min was widely discussed.
The National Team and the Asian Cup:
On the international stage, Kang In-Lee played a significant role for South Korea during the 2024 AFC Asian Cup. Although the team fell short of the title, Kang showcased flashes of his quality, contributing crucial assists and demonstrating his vision on the field. The incident with Son Heung-min, however, added a discordant note to his performance, though both players publicly resolved their differences afterward.
Resilience and Finding His Rhythm Again:
After a period of physical and psychological adjustment, Kang In-Lee managed to recover by mid-2024. His performance improved notably, particularly after PSG added new players that allowed him to play in different positions. This helped him find his rhythm and contribute more effectively to the team. His ability to create opportunities and his passing precision were highlighted by coach Luis Enrique, who used him in various tactical roles, including as a false nine.
Looking Ahead:
Despite the ups and downs, Kang In-Lee ended the year on a high note, being included in the Ligue 1 Team of the Season by Sofascore and showing significant personal and professional growth. With two goals and two assists in the 2023-2024 Ligue 1 season and victories in the Ligue 1 and the Coupe de France, his first full year with PSG was one of learning and success.
2024 has been an emotional rollercoaster of challenges and achievements for Kang In-Lee. At just 23 years old, the future looks bright for the young South Korean, who is already preparing for the next season with hopes of continuing to prove his worth in France and on the international stage.