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WILL LEE KANG-IN PLAY IN THE 2026 WORLD CUP?
Lee Kang-in, the South Korean midfielder who plays for PSG, is one of the most promising talents in Asian football. Since his professional debut, he has generated considerable interest due to his technique, vision, and ability to make a difference on the pitch. After his participation in Qatar 2022, Korean and international football fans are wondering: will we see Lee Kang-in at the 2026 World Cup? In this article, we review his current situation with the national team, key statistics, and the factors that could determine his path to the World Cup in North America.
Lee Kang-in's Present in South Korea
Lee Kang-in is part of a new generation of South Korean footballers who combine individual talent with experience in Europe. Born in Incheon in 2001, he trained at the Valencia CF academy and made his professional debut in LaLiga at just 17 years old. His playing style, characterized by short dribbles, through balls, and control in tight spaces, quickly made him a media figure in Asia.
With the national team, he debuted in 2019, and since then has accumulated playing time in tournaments such as the Asian Cup and the 2022 Qatar World Cup. Although his participation in that World Cup was limited, he showed glimpses of his quality and demonstrated that he can be a key player in the medium term. Today, he is a regular in the squads of Jürgen Klinsmann, the current manager of South Korea. Is he being considered for 2026? Everything indicates that he is. Lee Kang-in is part of the qualifying process for the 2026 World Cup, and his role has been increasing. His presence in key matches of the Asian qualifiers demonstrates that the coaching staff trusts him. Furthermore, his development as a player at PSG could solidify his place as a starter for the next World Cup.
He made his debut for the senior national team in 2019.
He participated in the 2022 World Cup with limited playing time.
He is a regular in the current squads.
Klinsmann considers him an important part of the 2026 project.
Statistics and Evolution at Clubs
At club level, Lee Kang-in has followed an upward trajectory. After several years at Valencia, where he alternated between starting and coming off the bench, he took a key step by signing for Mallorca in 2021. There, he established himself as a starter, becoming one of the team's most creative players, and managed to stand out in one of the most demanding leagues in the world.
His great performance at Mallorca caught the attention of Paris Saint-Germain, who signed him in 2023. Although he is not always a starter at PSG, he has played in the Champions League and has been important in rotation matches, which gives him experience at the highest level. In terms of numbers, in his first season in France he has managed to rack up several goals and assists, especially in domestic competitions. Impressive stats: Lee stands out not only for his technical talent, but also for his tactical intelligence. He is one of the few Asian players to have played in three of the top five European leagues before turning 24. Furthermore, his statistics reflect a steady improvement in passing accuracy, chance creation, and dribbling efficiency.
Over 100 LaLiga appearances between Valencia and Mallorca.
Signed by PSG in 2023 for €22 million.
Average of 2.3 key passes per game at Mallorca.
Champions League appearance with PSG.
Annual increase in assists since 2021.
What does he need to make it to 2026?
As of today, the chances of seeing Lee Kang-in at the 2026 World Cup are high, but not guaranteed. South Korea still needs to successfully complete its journey in the Asian qualifiers, where it competes with teams like Japan, Iran, and Australia for direct qualification spots. In addition, Lee needs to maintain his fitness, get playing time with his club, and avoid injuries that could sideline him.
Keys to securing his place
His versatility as an attacking midfielder or winger makes him tactically valuable. He can adapt to various formations, something crucial in short tournaments like the World Cup. His emotional maturity will also be important, as major tournaments require character. Internal competition is fierce, but Lee has proven himself capable when given continuity. On the other hand, South Korea plans to draw on a blend of youth and experience. Lee, who will have already played in two World Cups if he makes it to 2026, could be the perfect link between veterans like Heung-min Son and the new gems emerging from the K-League and European academies.
Maintain consistency at PSG or be strategically loaned out.
Avoid injuries, especially muscle injuries.
Continue to stand out in qualifiers and FIFA friendlies.
Consolidate a leading role in the senior national team.
Improve defensive and ball recovery statistics.
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