Lee Kang-in

Lee Kang-in made his professional debut for Valencia CF on October 30, 2018, in a Copa del Rey match against Ebro. At only 17 years old, this debut marked the beginning of his professional career in top-level European football. His introduction as a substitute in the match showcased his potential to Valencia fans and provided him with valuable experience on the competitive stage, laying the foundation for his subsequent rise within the sport.

Lee Kang-in made his debut in the UEFA Champions League on September 17, 2019, playing for Valencia CF against Chelsea. This milestone was significant as he became the youngest South Korean to play in the prestigious tournament, showcasing his skills on one of the biggest stages in European club football. His participation highlighted his rising star status and potential as a key player for the future. The match ended in a 1-0 victory for Valencia, marking a memorable start for Lee in the Champions League.

On December 16, 2019, Lee Kang-in was awarded the Asian Young Footballer of the Year by the Asian Football Confederation. This accolade was a testament to his outstanding performances throughout the year, particularly during the FIFA U-20 World Cup where he played a pivotal role in South Korea reaching the finals. Lee's technical skill and vision on the field were recognized, solidifying his reputation as a promising young talent in Asian football.

On January 4, 2020, Lee Kang-in scored his first La Liga goal against Real Madrid, showcasing his potential against one of the world's best teams. Despite Valencia losing the match, Lee's goal was a significant personal milestone and highlighted his ability to compete with top-tier talent. His performance drew praise from analysts and increased his profile as an emerging star in the league, heightening expectations for his future contributions to the team and sport.

On September 13, 2020, Lee Kang-in was named in the starting lineup for Valencia CF in their La Liga opener against Levante, marking his first start of the 2020/2021 season. Lee's performance in this match was notable as he provided two assists, helping the team achieve a 4-2 victory. His ability to impact the game from the start was a statement of his increasing importance to the team, confirming his role as a growing influence in the squad.

In the FIFA U-20 World Cup held in June 2019, Lee Kang-in played a crucial role in South Korea reaching their first-ever final in the tournament's history. Lee was instrumental in orchestrating the team’s attack and providing key assists, along with scoring pivotal goals that pushed Korea through the knockout stages. Although Korea did not win the final, Lee’s performance was spectacular throughout the tournament, earning him the Golden Ball as the best player of the tournament.

On August 30, 2021, Lee Kang-in transferred from Valencia CF to RCD Mallorca on a free move, signing a four-year contract. This transfer marked a new chapter in Lee's career as he aimed to secure more playing time and responsibility within the first team. The move was seen as a strategic step to further develop his skills and impact in La Liga, as well as to continue his growth in one of Europe's top leagues, with Mallorca providing a promising environment for his development.

On September 27, 2022, Lee Kang-in scored his first goal for the South Korean senior national team in an international friendly match against Cameroon. Scoring for the national team was a significant milestone in his career as it demonstrated his successful transition from a youth prodigy to a meaningful contributor at the senior international level. The moment highlighted Lee's continued development and impact on the international stage as part of Korea's new generation of talent.

On May 27, 2023, Lee Kang-in played a pivotal role in RCD Mallorca securing their safety in La Liga for the 2022-2023 season. His performance throughout the season was critical in helping the team maintain its position in Spain's top flight. He showcased his playmaking skills and was a regular contributor in both goals and assists, proving to be one of the standout performers. Lee's success with Mallorca fueled further speculation about his potential move to bigger clubs.

On July 1, 2023, Lee Kang-in transferred from RCD Mallorca to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) for a reported fee of €22 million. This transfer to one of Europe's most prestigious clubs marked a significant step in Lee's career, providing him with an opportunity to play alongside some of the world’s best footballers and compete in the UEFA Champions League. His move to PSG was seen as a major leap forward, demonstrating his development into a player capable of performing at the highest levels of the sport.