The news of Lee Kang-in's (24, Paris Saint-Germain) injury is a major topic in the UK.
The South Korean national football team, led by head coach Hong Myung-bo (56), drew 1-1 with Oman in the 7th match of Group B of the third round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Asia qualifiers held at Goyang Stadium on the evening of the 20th.
South Korea has recorded 15 points (5 wins, 3 draws), maintaining a somewhat precarious first place in Group B. South Korea could have confirmed their qualification for the World Cup finals early if they had defeated Oman and Jordan, but the shocking draw against Oman has delayed their progression to the finals.
The frustrating South Korean attack changed after the introduction of Lee Kang-in. Lee Kang-in assisted Hwang Hee-chan's opening goal in the 41st minute, showcasing his presence. The assist came just three minutes after he was introduced.
A loss greater than the draw is the injuries to Lee Kang-in and Baek Seung-ho. In the 38th minute, Baek Seung-ho was substituted due to a left hamstring injury. Lee Kang-in, who was substituted in, suffered an ankle injury in the 34th minute of the second half. Ultimately, Lee Kang-in, Jeong Seung-hyun, and Baek Seung-ho were released from the national team due to injuries on the 22nd.
Head coach Hong Myung-bo noted in an interview on the 22nd, "The examination results for Lee Kang-in's injury are less severe than expected. The attitude and mindset concerning his participation with the national team were confirmed. He is an important player for his team, so we decided to release him from the squad."
The news of Lee Kang-in's injury quickly spread to Europe. 'London World' reported, "Korean star Lee Kang-in has fallen due to injury. Lee Kang-in assisted the opening goal against Oman and then collapsed. Lee Kang-in's injury is a great loss for both the national team and Paris Saint-Germain," accompanied by remarks from his teammate Son Heung-min, who expressed his concern.
The heightened attention on Lee Kang-in's injury stems from recent transfer rumors. Reports indicate that several clubs, including Premier League Arsenal, are interested in acquiring Lee Kang-in. He has not been receiving many starting opportunities at Paris Saint-Germain.
'The Athletic' reported, "Lee Kang-in caught the attention of Arsenal last January. Arsenal considered Lee Kang-in as a potential replacement for Gabriel Martinelli. Although the transfer window has closed, Lee Kang-in continues to be mentioned. In addition to Arsenal, he is receiving consistent interest from Premier League teams like Manchester United, Tottenham, and Newcastle."
A Korea Football Association official stated, "Lee Kang-in does not plan to return immediately and will stay in the country for a while to focus on treatment. The injury has been diagnosed as a two-week recovery. The timing of his departure will be discussed with his club. He is also communicating with head coach Luis Enrique."
[OSEN]