Lee Kang-in confirmed to stay at PSG! Discussions on contract renewal and the challenge of participating in the 2026 World Cup.

End of Transfer Speculation, L’Équipe “Confident in His Stay”

Lee Kang-in, a key forward for Paris Saint-Germain, has seen the likelihood of staying with the team this summer increase overwhelmingly. France’s leading media outlet L’Équipe has expressed confidence in his stay, dismissing the transfer market speculations that have arisen. Club sports director Luis Campos officially stated, “With a contract lasting until 2028, Lee is always part of the club’s plans, and a transfer is not being considered.”

From Super Cup Hero to Assurance of Staying

In the UEFA Super Cup against Tottenham, PSG won their first-ever Super Cup trophy after a penalty shootout. In this match, Lee Kang-in, who was substituted in the second half, scored a crucial goal that led the team to a dramatic victory. In a desperate situation trailing 0-2, he ignited hope with a left-footed long-range shot and calmly scored as the fourth kicker in the penalty shootout.

Background of Transfer Consideration and Player’s Change of Heart

In the latter half of last season, Lee Kang-in faced a significant reduction in playing opportunities in crucial matches, leading him to deeply contemplate his future. Unlike the active playing time at the beginning of the 2024-2025 season, his bench time increased in the second half, making it essential for him to secure more playing time with the 2026 North American World Cup in mind. It is a completely natural desire for a player to want sufficient playing time.

Club’s Firm Commitment to Retain

The PSG management has classified Lee Kang-in as a core asset of the team and has clearly expressed its intention to pursue a long-term re-signing. Sports director Luis Campos has repeatedly conveyed confidence that “Lee is included in the team plans, and a transfer is not being considered.” The club has completely excluded him from the sale list, specifically expressing its intention to retain him.

Trends in the Transfer Market and Future Outlook

With two weeks left until the transfer market closes, PSG plans to focus solely on selling other players. The exclusion of Lee from the sale list is a clear signal of the club’s intention to retain him. While the possibility of unexpected variables remains, at this point, his stay at PSG is being accepted as a foregone conclusion.

Future Challenge: Securing Playing Time

With Lee Kang-in’s stay becoming certain, the remaining challenge is to secure sufficient playing opportunities. His bench time in crucial matches during the latter half of last season remains a disappointing memory, but the conditions for consistently seeking opportunities within PSG’s rich squad have been established. For him, aiming for the 2026 World Cup, the key will be how much playing time he can secure and how he can showcase his personal abilities.

Pursuing Re-signing, Initiating Long-term Project

The decision for Lee Kang-in to stay at PSG has been influenced by a combination of positive factors, including his contribution to the Super Cup victory, the club’s firm trust, and the pursuit of a re-signing. Moving forward, he will need to enhance his competitiveness for the 2026 World Cup through increased playing time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q. What is Lee Kang-in’s role at PSG and future plans?

A. PSG evaluates Lee Kang-in as a core midfielder and plans to utilize him as part of a long-term project through re-signing. He is expected to solidify his position within the team by increasing his playing time.

Q. What is the background of the transfer consideration?

A. The need to secure sufficient playing time to maintain match fitness for the 2026 World Cup due to reduced opportunities in the latter half of last season.

Q. What is the current status of PSG’s re-signing efforts?

A. The club is actively pursuing a re-signing with Lee Kang-in, classifying him as an important asset, making the likelihood of a long-term contract high.