Lee Kang-in

World Cup 2026 Analysis

Lee Kang-in's prospects for the FIFA World Cup 2026 appear strong, although his immediate participation is now clouded by a recent injury. Having already played a pivotal role in South Korea's qualification for the tournament, he has openly expressed his ambition to lead his nation to a World Cup title.

Analysis of Prospects and Performance:

Lee Kang-in, at 24 years old, has established himself as a key player for both his club, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), and the South Korea national team. He was the youngest player for South Korea at the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 and made an impact by appearing in every match and recording an assist.

His club form at PSG has seen a significant ascent, particularly during the 2024-2025 season, where he was described as "on fire" and became an "essential" player for the team. He reportedly matched his personal best for goals in a season halfway through the 2024-2025 campaign, demonstrating impressive development. French media outlets have lauded his offensive involvement, noting his high metrics in chance creation and goal contributions, surpassing other key players. He played a part in PSG winning the UEFA Champions League in 2025, becoming the first Asian player to achieve a European "Treble" with the club. While there were earlier concerns about his playing time at PSG due to increased competition, his role expanded amid teammate injuries, and he showcased his versatility by playing in various attacking and midfield positions. He has been recognized as the national team's "next-generation ace" due to his high-level performances. For the national team, he has continued to be a crucial attacking force, providing assists in World Cup qualifying matches, including a match-winning assist against Ghana in November 2025.

Latest News:

A significant concern for Lee Kang-in's immediate future and the World Cup build-up is a left thigh injury he sustained in December 2025 during the FIFA Intercontinental Cup final in Qatar. PSG announced he would be sidelined for "several weeks," which is a worry for South Korea as the World Cup approaches in June. South Korea's head coach, Hong Myung-bo, has emphasized the importance of preventing injuries among his European-based players and plans to remain in communication with their clubs.

Despite his strong performances, Lee Kang-in was notably excluded from the 2025 Ligue 1 Team of the Year, which was heavily dominated by PSG players. This exclusion highlights the intense competition for attacking positions at PSG, especially with the arrival of new talent and the strong form of other forwards.

Off the field, Lee Kang-in has also addressed South Korean fans, urging them to show positive support for the national team and the coaching staff amidst criticism directed at coach Hong Myung-bo and the Korean Football Association.

Transfer rumors have also surfaced, with clubs like Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United, and Arsenal reportedly showing interest in the attacking midfielder. PSG reportedly values him at approximately €40 million, having rejected offers in the past, as coach Luis Enrique considers him a "necessary resource."