Kang-In Lee is one of Paris Saint-Germain’s new and exciting signings this summer, but the club may have to prepare for his absence this season.
As reported by Yonhap News Agency (via RMC Sport), Kang-In Lee has been called up to the South Korea national team to participate in the Asian Games from September 23 to October 8.
During those dates, PSG will face Olympique de Marseille at the Parc des Princes, Clermont Foot away, and Stade Rennais away. That’s a tough stretch of matches for Les Parisiens, but the report hints at a reason why the club might allow Kang-In Lee to participate.
By policy, all South Koreans must participate in military service for 21 months before turning 28. However, if South Korea wins the goal medal at the Asian Games or the Olympics, the 22-year-old’s military service time could be reduced.
It’s an interesting conundrum for Paris Saint-Germain. By sacrificing three games this season, they could potentially have available later in his career when he hits his prime and is more acclimated to Paris, Ligue 1, and his teammates.
The versatile Kang-In Lee arrived from RCD Mallorca in July for a reported fee of €22 million. Last season, he recorded six goals and seven assists in La Liga.
Paris Saint-Germain kicks off the 2023-24 Ligue 1 campaign on August 13, when they welcome FC Lorient to the Parc des Princes.
