Lee Kang-in Embraces National Team Amidst Training Camp
Lee Kang-in, the star midfielder for Paris Saint-Germain, has officially joined the South Korean national football team as they prepare for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. His arrival at the training camp in Salt Lake City, Utah, was met with enthusiastic greetings from both Head Coach Hong Myung-bo and his fellow players.
Coach Hong Praises Lee’s Historic Achievement
Head Coach Hong Myung-bo personally welcomed Lee Kang-in, inquiring about his condition after a long journey from France. The coach highlighted Lee’s significant accomplishment of winning the UEFA Champions League for two consecutive years, a feat unprecedented for a South Korean player. “Winning the Champions League, that’s the best, isn’t it?” Coach Hong remarked, acknowledging Lee’s historic achievement.
Lee, who arrived at the training facility directly after his flight, expressed his gratitude with a smile. While he was part of the squad for the Champions League final, he did not get to play in the match. His team secured their second consecutive title through a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw, marking a remarkable milestone.
Teammates Rally Around Lee Kang-in
Captain Son Heung-min of LAFC was among the first to congratulate Lee, embracing him warmly and expressing his sincere best wishes. During a team meeting, Son Heung-min announced Lee’s arrival, leading the squad in a round of applause. Lee responded with a humble bow.
Son Heung-min emphasized the importance of unity for the World Cup campaign. “I sincerely congratulate you on your win. We’ve come together as one team for the World Cup, and there’s still one more game left. Let’s prepare well and head to Mexico with good momentum. Let’s all prepare well in our respective positions,” he urged.
A Touch of Humor: Lee’s New Hairstyle
Lee Kang-in’s striking new brown hair color also drew attention and playful banter from his teammates. Son Heung-min humorously asked, “What’s with your hair?” prompting laughter and comments from other players about his revamped look. Lee, who typically only changes his hairstyle without dyeing it, opted for this change before the Champions League final, making him a talking point within the squad.
Looking Ahead to the World Cup
Lee Kang-in shared his determination for the upcoming World Cup, stating, “I will do my best with the other players to show a good performance in this World Cup. I ask for your continued interest, love, and support as you have shown so far.”
The national team will continue their training sessions on June 3rd. Their second pre-World Cup friendly match will be against El Salvador on June 4th at Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego. The team recently secured a dominant 5-0 victory against Trinidad and Tobago, with goals from Son Heung-min, Cho Gue-sung, and Hwang Hee-chan.
It remains to be determined whether Lee Kang-in will participate in the match against El Salvador as he focuses on recovering his physical condition after his demanding club season.
