Analysts speculate that Lee Kang-in could emerge as Paris Saint-Germain (PSG)’s main playmaker.
French outlet ‘Le Parisien’ reported on the 21st (KST) that “PSG still lacks the elements to initiate aggressive play during its rebuilding phase. This role should be entrusted to the new signing, Lee Kang-in, who must rise to become the team’s ace.”
Having donned the PSG jersey since July, Lee has played a total of four matches, including preseason games. Throughout this period, coach Luis Enrique deployed Lee primarily as a winger on either flank. This isn’t unfamiliar to Lee, as he took on a similar role at Mallorca under coach Jürgen Klinsmann last season.
However, his role at Mallorca was distinct. He predominantly played as a left winger, weaving in and out of the flanks. Mallorca’s strategy was simple: in counterattacks, the ball eventually found its way to Lee, who would deliver a cross from the left for Budimir 메이저사이트 기준Muriqi to finish.
But his role at PSG is different. PSG doesn’t have a target striker like Muriqi. Lee’s gameplay primarily involved exchanges with fullbacks on the flanks or delivering probing passes from the wing to the center.
Such tactics don’t leverage Lee’s strengths. Known for his ability to shake off opponents and deliver incisive crosses from the flanks or orchestrate play from the middle, Lee’s trademark passes were scarcely seen in the last four games. A significant reason could be the absence of wingers in the team. Until the last match, Kylian Mbappé’s strong links with Real Madrid hinted at a possible exit. Fortunately, after negotiations, Mbappé decided to stay with PSG. With Neymar’s departure and the inclusion of Ousmane Dembélé, PSG has strengthened its wings.
This could suggest a shift in Lee’s role. Moving from the flank to a more central role could allow him to better showcase his skills. ‘Le Parisien’ highlighted, “Sources indicate that PSG wants to shape Lee as a playmaker. With the departures of Lionel Messi and Neymar, PSG is in need of a new play creator.” The report added, “Enrique trusts Lee, and the current staff wishes to transform him into a playmaker.”
The chances of Lee taking a central midfielder role seem high. Enrique typically employs a 4-3-3 formation, which he has consistently토토사이트 순위 used since joining PSG. The forward trio is expected to consist of Mbappé, Gonzalo Higuain, and Dembélé.
Manuel Ugarte is likely to take the defensive midfield role. The remaining two midfield spots are contested between Betinia and Fabian Luis on the left. The right midfield has so far seen Warren Zaire-Emery in action. However, being born in 2006, Zaire-Emery is still developing. Hence, it seems plausible for Lee to feature on the right.
Local speculations also suggest a midfield role for Lee. French ‘L’Équipe’ mentioned on the 15th, “Since his signing, Lee has only been used as a winger. Yet, he has played as a central midfielder at Mallorca. He could be the option PSG is looking for. He has proven himself in La Liga, known for its fast pace and strong pressure, and has a high probability of winning duels. He’s dynamic and harmonious and performed well when placed in the center. To make fans forget Neymar, Lee must show even more.”