France is also paying close attention to Lee Kang-in's (24, Paris Saint-Germain) physical condition.

South Korea will face Jordan in the group stage's eighth match on the evening of the 25th at Suwon World Cup Stadium. Currently, Korea holds the top spot in Group B with 4 wins and 3 draws (15 points), but they missed an early qualification opportunity with a 1-1 draw against Oman in the seventh match. If they lose to Jordan, they could lose their leading position and face a shift in ranking.

The problem is the injury gap. The team's 'playmaker' Lee Kang-in, along with Baek Seung-ho (Birmingham City) and Jung Seung-hyun (Al Wasl), has all been sidelined due to injuries. In particular, Lee Kang-in was substituted out due to an ankle injury on his left foot after assisting Hwang Hee-chan's opening goal against Oman.

The absence of Lee Kang-in, who was performing duties as a 'multi-player' from defensive midfielder to offensive roles, is critical for the national team's strength.

Head Coach Hong Myung-bo noted, "Fortunately, the examination results showed that it was not a serious injury, but after discussions with his club, it was decided to release Lee Kang-in and two other players from the roster." There will be no additional call-ups for replacements, and the current squad of 25 is preparing for the match against Jordan.

Lee Kang-in's injury means that the core of the national team's offense has vanished. Lee has been a key player under Coach Hong, starting in six consecutive matches and leading offensive play with his passing and ability to evade pressure. This is exemplified by the fact that the team had no shots at all before his introduction in the Oman match.

With Lee Kang-in's absence, the midfield responsibilities will fall on Hwang In-beom (29, Feyenoord). He missed the last match against Oman for injury management and may be available for the match against Jordan, but he is not at 100% fitness. If Hwang In-beom's performance does not meet expectations due to his suboptimal condition, the national team will face greater difficulties in midfield composition. With Lee Kang-in and Baek Seung-ho already sidelined, the ball transition and pace will inevitably suffer.

Lee Kang-in's injury has also diminished the national team's tactical flexibility. He has played crucial roles in the team's tactics, covering positions from the flanks to central and deep-lying playmaker, but due to his absence, Coach Hong may need to consider using a double pivot with Park Yong-woo and Won Du-jae or promoting Lee Jae-sung one position higher as a Plan B.

Lee Kang-in's injury is also a major concern for fans of his club, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). At this point, he is a rotation member of the bench, but his versatility has been a driving force for Coach Luis Enrique to use him consistently. However, there is a possibility that such a crucial player may be sidelined for a lengthy period due to injury.

Given these circumstances, PSG fans have been keenly attentive to Coach Hong Myung-bo's comments regarding Lee Kang-in's physical condition. French media outlet 'Canal Supporters' explained, "Lee Kang-in, who has played 41 matches under Coach Enrique this season, is a key member of PSG. His injury could be a significant blow."

This media outlet stated, "Fortunately, Lee Kang-in's injury doesn't seem that serious. Coach Hong Myung-bo directly said that Lee's condition is not serious," adding, "The player himself also told a PSG interview that 'the swelling has gone down and I feel fine.'"

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