"Please Don't Look Only at the Bad" — A Messy Korean Football Scene... Lee Kang-in's Earnest Plea, Head Bowed Low

[Financial News] It was a happy day for Lee Kang-in, who made a successful debut in a red uniform in front of Korean fans. But instead of cheering, the 25-year-old Atlético Madrid midfielder bowed his head first.
Lee Kang-in took his first step with his new club on the 9th, appearing in the friendly between Atlético Madrid and Manchester City F.C. in the 2026 Coupang Play Series at Seoul World Cup Stadium. It was his first official match since leaving Paris Saint-Germain Football Club (PSG) and joining Atlético Madrid this summer.
More than 50,000 fans who filled the stands at Sangam that day cheered enthusiastically for every move Lee Kang-in made.
However, Lee Kang-in's expression was heavy when he entered the mixed zone after the match. Before reporters could even ask a question, he began with words of reflection about Korean football.
Lee Kang-in said, "As everyone knows, Korean football is not in a very good place right now." He added, "But even in this situation, the players are thinking a lot and reflecting because we want to bring joy to the fans."

Korean football is currently under fire from the public after the disaster of failing to advance from the group stage at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, followed by a recent scandal involving "sex favors" for a foreign referee who visited Korea 14 to 15 years ago. Lee Kang-in's remarks are seen as a sign that, as one of the team's stars, he deeply feels the grim reality surrounding the national team and the football world.
He urged fans, "The players will do their best so we can show a better side of ourselves in the future, so please continue to give us your interest and support." He then pleaded, "Players abroad as well as those in the K League are always working hard for Korean football. Please don't look only at the bad parts; please also look at the good parts."
Lee Kang-in started on the bench that day but came on in the 19th minute of the second half and moved actively across the pitch until the final whistle. One notable point was that he played not as the second-line midfielder he usually handled at his former club PSG, but as one half of the front-line two-man attack.

Explaining the tactical change, Lee Kang-in said, "Coach Diego Pablo Simeone González wanted me to play more aggressively in that position. He made that clear from the moment I joined, so I was able to understand exactly what kind of play I needed to make." He added, "With the help of my teammates, I am adapting well."
When asked about his preferred position, he showed a selfless attitude, saying, "Honestly, I'm fine playing anywhere. Rather than where I feel most comfortable, it's best to be in a position where I can help the team."
For Lee Kang-in, who came through the Valencia CF youth system and later played for Mallorca, Spain is almost like a second home. Lee Kang-in said, "As a player, things can't always be good. Difficult moments and good moments come and go." He added, "I'm very happy and excited to be back in France. Whether it's Atlético Madrid or the national team, I will do my best in every moment and show my best."
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