Football fans, June 1st, 2025, will be recorded as a historic day in Korean football history. Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), the French powerhouse, lifted the UEFA Champions League (UCL) trophy after a dominant performance in the final, and at the heart of it was our proud Taeguk Warrior, Lee Kang-in. Although he didn't play in the final, this achievement, the first Champions League victory for a Korean player since Park Ji-sung 17 years ago, holds even greater significance. The boy who dreamt of Champions League glory in 'Shoot Dori' as a child has now realized that dream at the pinnacle of European football. I want to share the emotion and excitement I felt witnessing that moment with you all.
In the 2024-2025 season, PSG won the Ligue 1 title, the Coupe de France, and the Champions League, achieving the club's first-ever treble (domestic league, FA Cup, and Champions League victory). This is the ninth time this has been achieved in European football history, showcasing PSG's strength. Under manager Luis Enrique, the team demonstrated strong teamwork, prioritizing organized play and the passion of young players rather than relying on specific superstars. They defeated challenging opponents from the group stage to the tournament, reaching the final and securing a resounding 5-0 victory against Inter Milan, creating a perfect finale. This overwhelming victory signals PSG's arrival as a new powerhouse in European football.
While not a starter in every match, Lee Kang-in played a total of 11 games in this Champions League campaign, including the group stage, contributing to the team's victory. He even played the role of a false nine striker at times, playing a key part in Luis Enrique's tactical experiments. While he faced competition for a starting position after an injury in the latter half of the season, he consistently performed his role whenever the team needed him, showcasing his presence. Especially early in the season, his brilliant passes and creative play energized PSG's attack, earning him high expectations from the fans. There were undoubtedly games where PSG's victories stemmed from attacks initiated by his footwork.
On Champions League final day, Lee Kang-in was on the bench, but unfortunately, didn't get on the pitch. However, his face was filled with genuine joy celebrating the team's victory. His bright smile as he celebrated with his teammates lifting the trophy moved many fans. Even without playing, achieving the goal of winning as a team member holds significant meaning. From my experience, winning in team sports isn't just for the players on the field; it's a result created by all members together. Lee Kang-in certainly contributed to writing a page in PSG's Champions League victory history.
Lee Kang-in's Champions League win is the first for a Korean player in 17 years, since Park Ji-sung's victory in the 2007-2008 season. This also shows the enhanced status of Korean football on the European stage. Furthermore, Lee Kang-in, contributing to PSG's treble, created history as the first Asian player to experience winning all three major European competitions (League, FA Cup, Champions League). This demonstrates his consistent and successful European career. Combined with Son Heung-min's Europa League victory and Kim Min-jae's league title, the 2024-2025 season was an unforgettable year for Korean footballers in Europe.
Despite achieving the great feat of winning the Champions League, Lee Kang-in's future is uncertain. This is because transfer rumors have been consistently raised along with his decreased playing time in the latter half of the season. French media reports suggest a high probability of Lee Kang-in leaving the team during the summer transfer window, with several clubs like SSC Napoli and Arsenal mentioned as potential destinations. Personally, I hope Lee Kang-in finds a team where he can fully showcase his skills and continue his challenges. I have no doubt he will show further growth, using his Champions League victory experience as a springboard.
Lee Kang-in's Champions League victory resonates far beyond personal glory, deeply impacting Korean football as a whole. His relentless pursuit of his childhood dream will inspire many aspiring footballers. I, too, witnessed his journey, once again feeling the preciousness of dreams and the moving nature of seeing efforts bear fruit. Wherever and however he plays in the future, I will continue supporting his challenges. I send my endless applause and encouragement to Lee Kang-in, who will lead the bright future of Korean football.
Q1: Did Lee Kang-in play in the Champions League final?
A1: No, Lee Kang-in was on the bench for the Champions League final but did not play.
Q2: Was this PSG's first Champions League victory?
A2: Yes, this was PSG's first Champions League victory in their 55-year history.
Q3: How many Korean players have won the Champions League since Park Ji-sung?
A3: Lee Kang-in is only the second Korean player to win the Champions League since Park Ji-sung, 17 years ago.
Q4: Did Lee Kang-in achieve a treble this season?
A4: Yes, Lee Kang-in's team, PSG, achieved a treble by winning Ligue 1, the Coupe de France, and the Champions League, and Lee Kang-in experienced the treble as a member of the team.
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