Lee Kang-in (24, PSG) showcased impressive performance in his return match after nearly a month, demonstrating his presence; however, a 'corner kick dispute' during the game became the center of controversy. Some fans and media criticized Lee Kang-in's actions, but local reports and reactions from the parties suggested that there was no significant conflict.
Lee Kang-in started on the 20th (Korea time) in a home match against Le Havre during the 30th round of the 2024-2025 season of Ligue 1 held at Parc des Princes in Paris, France. This marked his return match approximately a month after suffering an ankle injury during the qualifiers for the 2026 North and Central American World Cup against Oman last month.
On that day, PSG secured a 2-1 victory thanks to goals from Désiré doux and Gonçalo Ramos, celebrating their confirmed Ligue 1 title. Coach Luis Enrique implemented a large-scale rotation, and Lee Kang-in played as a 'deep lying playmaker' in a defensive midfielder position rather than a winger, directing the build-up from the back in a unique role.
Lee Kang-in's performance received high praise. The football statistics company SofaScore awarded him a score of 7.7, while French media Maxifoot stated, "This was one of Lee Kang-in's best matches of the season." In reality, Lee Kang-in exhibited comprehensive activity with 94 touches, 97% pass success rate (70/72), 3 key passes, 3 successful dribbles, 2 successful crosses, 7 successful long passes, and 3 tackles.
The issue arose in the 33rd minute of the first half. It was a somewhat unusual scene of a dispute with a teammate during a corner kick, not a free kick. During a corner kick situation for PSG, the 19-year-old promising player Désiré doux was preparing to take the kick when Lee Kang-in approached and, without saying anything, took the ball and prepared to kick it. A startled doux raised his hands momentarily to show his discontent but soon accepted and walked away.
This scene quickly became known through French media after the match. Le10sport reported, "There were various reactions among fans regarding Lee Kang-in's actions, but overall, many had negative views," while Kick Football analyzed, "It could be a tense moment similar to the conflicts between Edinson Cavani and Neymar or Neymar and Kylian Mbappe." On the other hand, VIPSG noted, "It did not cause a huge stir, and after the match, Lee Kang-in praised doux."
In fact, Lee Kang-in said in a post-match interview, "Doux is truly an excellent player. He has been performing wonderfully this season. I hope he records more goals and assists in the future. He will become the best player," indirectly expressing that there was no conflict. Coach Luis Enrique also gave a positive assessment, stating after the match, "Doux is an ambitious and developing player."
Lee Kang-in had previously attracted attention for friendly physical contact with his teammates during training. Fans interpreted scenes where he jokingly kicked Mbappe's butt or lightly bumped into Neymar as expressions of closeness.
Meanwhile, transfer rumors surrounding Lee Kang-in continue to circulate. French media Foot01 reported, "PSG is still in discussions about Lee Kang-in's future. Director Luis Campos has prioritized re-signing Lee Kang-in, but many teams want him." It continued, "Aston Villa, Manchester United, and Saudi clubs have shown interest, and conditions may be presented that PSG would find difficult to refuse."
In fact, Lee Kang-in has shown a decrease in opportunities to play, being excluded from the squad for the UEFA Champions League match against Aston Villa recently. As such, given the controversy and impressive performance in his return from injury, his summer future is becoming a hot topic again.
Lee Kang-in is contracted with PSG until June 2028, with both the possibility of staying and transferring remaining open. The remaining matches of this season, whether Lee Kang-in is used, and the club's summer plans are expected to be significant variables determining his future.
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