“It’s been unbelievable”
©IMAGO
Jesse Lingard has confirmed that he will leave FC Seoul next week after two years in South Korea after a mutual agreement was reached for him to pursue new opportunities. The former Manchester United attacking midfielder made the surprise decision to join the K-League club in February 2024 and it’s been an interesting journey. Lingard endured a complicated start to life at Seoul as he required time to adapt to his new surroundings and was criticised by his coach.
But the former England international changed opinion as he became an important player and eventually was handed the captain’s armband. Lingard has attracted an unparalleled level of interest into FC Seoul and he’s become a symbolic figure for the K-League. His time in South Korea, however, will end without silverware and he will bid farewell on Wednesday night with his final game against Melbourne City in the AFC Champions League.
Jesse Lingard to leave FC Seoul
In total, Lingard has made 66 appearances for the South Korean club, scoring 18 goals and providing ten assists. The 32-year-old scored ten goals in a single season for the first time in his career this season with Seoul finishing in sixth place. It’s unclear where Lingard will go next but there will be interest from clubs in England and it’s no secret that he’s a major fan of the United States, so an MLS move could be on the cards.
Speaking on his exit on Instagram, Lingard said: “My time in South Korea has been unbelievable – the football, the atmosphere and the passion around this club have been top class. The love, support and the appreciation you have shown towards me for these last two years has been truly amazing. I’ll always be grateful for the opportunity to play for such a massive club.”
