The ping-pong confusion. This is how the English press reported this morning, via The Sun or even the Daily Mail, an altercation that occurred within the South Korean team during the recent Asian Cup of Nations. On the eve of the semi-final against Jordan, which was lost 2-0, a fight broke out between several major players, starting with Tottenham star Heung-Min Son and PSG star Kang-In Lee.
The South Korean press revealed new details, and even the South Korean Football Federation admitted that there had indeed been an altercation. Several federation officials told the story behind the visibly serious clash, which resulted in an injury to Son’s finger. “During the tournament, there was a conflict between Lee Kang-in and senior members such as Son Heung-min, Kim Min-jae and Hwang Hee-chan”says a leader, relayed by the South Korean media Chosun.
The ping-pong of discord
It all started with a thought from Son to Kang-In Lee, guilty of having left the table to go play ping-pong. Lee’s response, allegedly insulting, did not please. “Son Heung-min got angry and grabbed Lee Kang-in by the collar, and a fight broke out”, continues a leader. Insults were thrown around and Lee Kang-in even tried to punch his partner. Dodge by Son, who nevertheless dislocated a finger while trying to free himself from another player who was holding him back. All the day before the semi-final therefore.
The clash continued to reach coach Jürgen Klinsmann. Several players from the squad went to him to ask him to exclude Lee from the selection after this incident. Which did not work, since Lee even started, in the same capacity as Son, against Jordan. This incident highlights several problems within the selection, between the young and the older, but also, as reported by the South Korean press, between the local players (who play in the K-League) and those who fill European clubs.
Kang-In Lee has in any case taken the measure of the controversy by publishing a message on his social networks. “It was reported that I had an altercation with Son before the Asian Cup semi-final. I have caused great disappointment to all football fans who support the national team. I am really sorry. I should have listened to the older players and I apologize for not showing a good attitude. I apologize to the many people who are disappointed in me. I am well aware of the fans’ investment in me. From now on I will try to support the senior players and become a better player and a better person”, he posted. Left to rest for a few days by Luis Enrique upon his return from the competition, Kang-In Lee is not in the Parisian squad to face Real Sociedad this Wednesday.
