Ligue 1 side Paris Saint-Germain may change the way they use Lee Kang-in, 22.
“Paris Saint-Germain are looking for a creative midfielder and Lee Kang-in could be a central midfield option if he is not available,” France’s L’Equipe reported on Saturday.
Paris Saint-Germain head coach Luis Enrique deployed Lee in a front three alongside Marco Asensio and Goncalo Hamus in a 4-3-3 formation in the Ligue 1 opener against Lorient on Sept. 13. Lee started on the left flank.안전놀이터
As reported by L’Equipe, Paris Saint-Germain are looking to inject some creativity into their attack this summer. They signed former Sporting Lisbon midfielder Manuel Ugarte, but Ugarte is more of a defensive player than an attacker. Manchester City’s Bernardo Silva and FC Barcelona’s Ilkay Gundogan were also mentioned, but they did not lead to actual signings.
Mbappe watched the opening match from afar ⓒYonhap/Reuters
Paris Saint-Germain’s decision to change Lee’s position was also based on the situation in the forward line. First and foremost, Kylian Mbappe is back after being labeled as a non-factor due to a conflict with the club. Mbappe played alongside Neymar and Lionel Messi to lead the attack last season.
In addition, Paris Saint-Germain signed FC Barcelona flanker Ousmane Dembele. Mbappe and Dembele, along with the aforementioned Hammers, will form an attacking trio.
While Lee was primarily used as a flanker or dropped striker in Mallorca, he also spent time in the midfield, dropping down to the halfway line to set up attacks. Paris Saint-Germain reportedly took note of Lee’s versatility when signing him. “He has already played in the central midfield role at Mallorca,” said L’Equipe.
Lee Kang-in dribbles during the Ligue 1 opener against Lorient on Wednesday (Sept. 12). ⓒYonhap/AFP
Lee Kang-in dribbles during the Ligue 1 opener against Lorient on Wednesday. ⓒYonhap/AP
Lee Kang-in dribbles during the Ligue 1 opener against Lorient on Wednesday (Sept. 12). ⓒYonhap/Reuters
Lee Kang-in, who started the opening match against Lorient on Sept. 13, was named “The Player” by the Ligue 1 secretariat, an award given to the best player of the match. According to soccer statistics company Footmob, Lee played 82 minutes, attempted three shots, had 84 touches, had a dribbling success rate of 67 percent (2/3) and a long pass success rate of 60 percent (3/5). However, his crossing success rate dropped to 17% (2/12). On defense, he attempted one tackle, which was successful, and helped the team with three recoveries and a 50% (3/6) success rate in ground ball contests.
“The enthusiasm that new signings Lee Kang-in and Marco Asensio have brought to Paris Saint-Germain is commendable,” said the Ligue 1 secretariat, “and with them at the center of their next game, PSG should be able to get a win.”
“Lee has taken on the role of Messi, a big player, and he has enjoyed it. The president of Paris Saint-Germain will be very happy with his performance as the first Korean to play for the club.”
Article courtesy of Sporting News