Lee Kang-in eager for Atlético Madrid debut, citing administrative delays

Lee Kang-in, the latest South Korean football sensation to join a European powerhouse, has voiced his anticipation for his debut with Spanish club Atlético Madrid. The midfielder expressed frustration over the delays that prevented him from joining his new team sooner.

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I wanted to start as soon as possible. It's just a few days away now!

"I wanted to start as soon as possible. It's just a few days away now!" Lee stated in a video released by the club. He explained that while both he and the club were keen for an early integration, administrative hurdles, specifically related to his military service exemption following his gold medal win at the 2022 Hangzhou Asian Games, caused the delay. Lee officially signed with Atlético Madrid on July 25, agreeing to a contract until June 30, 2031, with a transfer fee reported at €35 million plus €5 million in potential add-ons.

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The club and I wanted to join as soon as possible, but there were difficulties in processing the paperwork.

During his time in South Korea awaiting clearance, Lee maintained his fitness with intense personal training sessions at FC Seoul's home stadium. He is now poised to make his first appearance for Atlético Madrid on August 9 at the Seoul World Cup Stadium, in a friendly match against English club Manchester City. This match marks Atlético Madrid's return to South Korea for the first time since 2023.

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I have been training intensely over the past few weeks to join the team in peak physical condition.

Reflecting on his past encounters with Atlético Madrid as a player for Valencia and Mallorca, Lee recalled the intense pressure of playing at their home stadium, the Metropolitano. "Every match was tough. The pressure at the Metropolitano was immense," he said. Now, as a player for the Madrid-based club, he described the feeling as "special" and expressed great excitement. Lee, known for his strong competitive spirit, affirmed his commitment to continuous improvement and setting higher goals, concluding with a spirited "¡Vamos Atleti!" (Go Atleti!).

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Every match was tough. The pressure at the Metropolitano was immense. Now, it feels special to be a player for this team and I am very excited.