Lee Kang-in on joining Atletico Madrid: 'I come with that desire to win'

Seoul, August 18 -- South Korean midfielder Lee Kang-in has joined Atletico Madrid, expressing his determination to help the Spanish club achieve more victories. The 25-year-old made his first preseason appearance with the club in Seoul on August 9 before signing a five-year contract with Atleti at the end of July, after spending three seasons with Paris Saint-Germain.

Lee, who grew up in Spain, revealed that he had always wanted to join Atletico Madrid and join their quest for more titles. He emphasized the importance of hard work and improving himself to bring joy to Atletico fans. Last season, Atletico Madrid finished fourth in La Liga and reached the Champions League semifinals, with their last major trophy being the La Liga title in 2021.

Lee praised his new head coach, Diego Simeone, for his passion and dedication, stating that it inspires the players. Lee also joked about wearing the No. 7 shirt, previously held by legend Antoine Griezmann, and emphasized that his focus is on contributing to the team rather than the number. The midfielder expressed his excitement about playing for Atletico Madrid and his desire to help the club become the most popular football team in South Korea.

Atletico Madrid will begin their La Liga campaign against Malaga CF at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano Stadium on Wednesday, at 8 p.m. local time.