Lee Kang-in, the future of South Korean football and currently shining in Europe. His time at the prestigious Spanish club Valencia CF is an indispensable and significant chapter in his career. Having moved to Spain at a young age and been dubbed a 'soccer prodigy,' Lee grew within Valencia's youth system. He debuted in the first team amidst the fervent expectations of local fans. However, his Valencia journey, not as smooth as anticipated, left a deep impression with a mix of regret for many.
This article aims to delve into Lee Kang-in's key performances during his Valencia CF tenure and conduct an in-depth analysis of the complex reactions from the local fans.
Lee Kang-in joined Valencia's youth team in 2011, at the age of 10, marking the start of his life in Spain. Already known as a soccer prodigy in Korea through the show 'Shoot Dori,' he displayed unparalleled talent within Valencia's youth system. Despite receiving MVP awards in various youth tournaments and being courted by top clubs like Barcelona and Manchester United, Valencia secured him through proactive efforts, including fully covering the living expenses for Lee's family. Against this backdrop, Lee made his professional debut for Valencia CF Mestalla (B team) at the age of 16. In July 2018, he played his first-team debut match against Lausanne Sport in a preseason friendly, becoming the first Asian player in the club's history to feature for the senior squad. His first-team debut garnered significant expectations, with local Spanish media praising him as a 'diamond in the rough.'
Despite limited opportunities, Lee Kang-in showcased impressive performances in Valencia's first team. In October 2018, he made his debut as a starter against Ebro in the Copa del Rey (King's Cup), setting a record as the youngest Korean player to debut in a European professional football official match. In January of the following year, he started as a left winger in the second leg of the Copa del Rey Round of 16 against Sporting Gijón, leading the team to the quarterfinals and receiving warm applause and cheers from local fans. Notably, in a La Liga match against Getafe in September 2019, he scored his debut goal, breaking the record for the youngest foreign player to score for Valencia (18 years and 218 days). In the opening match of the 2020-21 La Liga season against Levante, he recorded two assists, contributing to the team's 4-2 victory. He set a record for the youngest Valencia player with multiple assists in a La Liga match in the 21st century, surpassing Juan Mata's record and demonstrating his outstanding playmaking abilities.
The reactions of Valencia fans towards Lee Kang-in were a complex mix of anticipation for his talent and regret over his lack of playing time. Having been called a 'genius' since his youth, his every play in the early stages of his first-team career was met with enthusiastic responses. However, as he consistently failed to secure regular playing time under coaches like Marcelino and later Javi Gracia, criticism grew among fans, saying, 'They are not utilizing Lee Kang-in properly.' A particularly controversial moment occurred in a match against Celta Vigo in 2020 when he was seen arguing with captain Dani Parejo over a free-kick, sparking significant debate in the local media and among fans. Despite these controversies, the belief in his exceptional skills and flashes of brilliance remained, and even after his departure, Valencia fans held onto a complex, affectionate yet critical view of him.
Ultimately, Lee Kang-in left Valencia in the summer of 2021, with one year left on his contract, to join RCD Mallorca. This decision was a result of a confluence of Valencia's financial difficulties, the coach's tactical choices, and Lee Kang-in's own strong desire for consistent playing time. At the time, Valencia legend Dario Felman advised Lee to stay with the team and not listen to bad advice, but the separation was unavoidable. As Lee Kang-in showcased dazzling performances for Mallorca and later PSG, regret and criticism over letting him go for free intensified among Valencia fans. His gesture of apology to his former team's fans after scoring against Valencia while playing for Mallorca at Mestalla particularly moved many, showcasing his maturity and enduring affection for Valencia.
Lee Kang-in's time at Valencia CF served as a crucial period of growth and a stepping stone in his football career. From his youth, he attracted attention as a world-class talent and garnered interest from top clubs. Competing in the highest level of La Liga, he honed his professional skills and mental fortitude. Although he didn't receive as much playing time as anticipated, his brilliant performances within those limitations proved his potential. This laid the foundation for his subsequent development and impressive displays after transferring to Mallorca and Paris Saint-Germain FC. While Valencia is left with the regret of losing such an outstanding player, for Lee Kang-in, Valencia remains a cherished memory where he nurtured his childhood dreams and took his first steps as a professional. His Valencia era will be remembered as a vital part of his journey from a gifted young prospect to a true world-class player.
After joining Valencia's youth academy, Lee Kang-in played for the first team for a total of three seasons, from the 2018-19 season to the 2020-21 season.
Fans expressed disappointment that, despite Lee Kang-in's exceptional talent, he did not receive sufficient playing time with the first team. In particular, after he moved to another club and achieved success, there was significant criticism that Valencia did not utilize him properly.
Lee Kang-in scored his first La Liga goal for Valencia's first team in a match against Getafe on September 26, 2019 (KST). He started the game and scored the team's second goal in the 39th minute.
The primary reasons included limited first-team playing opportunities, the coach's tactical decisions, and Valencia's financial situation. Lee Kang-in himself had a strong desire to grow through consistent match participation.
0