Lee Kang-in's return to Atletico Madrid delayed by South Korean administrative procedures

Hupu Football News | July 27th

According to Marca, Lee Kang-in still needs to complete relevant administrative procedures in South Korea after joining Atlético Madrid, as he awaits the renewal of his overseas travel permit. As a result, the exact date of his return to the team has not yet been determined. Currently, he is conducting personal training at the Seoul FC training base.

Lee Kang-in has become a "national affair." For Atlético Madrid, he inherits the number 7 jersey, making him a key figure to fill the huge void left by Griezmann's departure. For South Korea, although he is a national idol, he still needs to fulfill his duties as a South Korean citizen before beginning his exciting chapter as a new star at the Metropolitano.

Thus, after Atlético Madrid officially announced the signing of Lee Kang-in — the club paid Paris Saint-Germain a fixed transfer fee of €35 million, with an additional €5 million in variables — the next step most anticipated by all Atlético fans is to see this "Korean Messi" start training under Simeone's guidance. However, when this will happen remains uncertain, as Lee Kang-in currently has to stay in the country due to South Korean legal requirements.

Although he won the 2023 Asian Games with the South Korean team, earning exemption from military service, this new Atlético signing still needs to complete some procedures to join the "Arts and Sports Personnel Program." He is currently awaiting approval from South Korean authorities to renew his overseas travel permit. In short, until approval is granted, it is impossible to accurately determine when he can join the team.

Therefore, if the permit is not approved by this Thursday, Lee Kang-in is likely to stay in South Korea, waiting for Atlético Madrid to arrive in Seoul next Thursday. Simeone's team will depart for Stockholm this Friday and face Manchester United on Saturday, August 1st. After that, the Atlético delegation will leave Madrid for South Korea on Wednesday, August 5th. Conversely, if the authorities grant approval on Tuesday or Wednesday, Atlético may consider having Lee Kang-in travel to Spain immediately.

Condition Adjustment as Per Atlético's Requirements

Facing this "national affair" completely beyond Atlético's control, Lee Kang-in is currently training remotely to avoid any physical gap when he officially joins the team.

After participating in the World Cup, Lee Kang-in had a three-week vacation, which ended on Friday, July 17th. Previously, Atlético team doctor Villalón traveled to South Korea to conduct his medical examination. The club was prepared to have him as a new face during the training camp in Los Ángeles de San Rafael, but that ultimately did not happen.

Since the end of his vacation, this talented winger has been training with a personal coach at the Seoul FC training base. However, his preparation is fully aligned with Atlético's requirements. The club has provided him with specific physical and nutritional plans to ensure his progress matches that of his new teammates.

Atlético hopes Lee Kang-in can be in good form for the match against Manchester City on Sunday, August 9th. As the most anticipated star at that time, his debut is expected to capture the attention of the entire nation of South Korea.

Source: Marca