Lingard Opens Up on Ki Sung-yueng’s Exit After Inspiring FC Seoul to Dominant Win Over Pohang
Jesse Lingard described Ki Sung-yueng as "an eternal legend of FC Seoul" following the midfielder’s emotional farewell, as the former Manchester United star helped fire Seoul to a resounding 4-1 victory over Pohang Steelers on Saturday evening.
In front of a packed Seoul World Cup Stadium, the K League 1 clash saw Lingard open the scoring before foreign teammates Lucas, Marko Dugandžić, and Patryk Kilmala added their names to the scoresheet in a statement win. The result sees Seoul climb to 30 points, just two behind fourth-placed Pohang.
On Ki Sung-yueng: “A Club Legend, Wherever He Goes”
While the football on display was emphatic, much of the post-match discussion centred around Ki Sung-yueng’s departure — a decision that has sent shockwaves through the club's supporters. Lingard, now increasingly viewed as a leader in the dressing room, addressed the issue candidly in his post-match press conference.
“It’s a difficult situation,” Lingard admitted. “Ki is, without question, a club legend. I understand exactly what he means to FC Seoul. But there comes a moment where, as a professional, you have to make tough decisions.”
Lingard revealed his personal connection with Ki, saying, “When I first arrived, he was one of the first to speak to me. After his injury, I had to take over the captaincy and he helped me adjust. I’m grateful for everything he’s done. Wherever he goes, he’ll always be a legend of this club.”
An Emotional Farewell Moment
Lingard also commented on the tribute message that appeared on the stadium scoreboard and the emotion it brought.
“It was a touching moment. You could see it affected him. He’s been here a long time. He told me it wasn’t easy to leave, and it showed. I told him I’ll support him no matter where he goes, and thanked him for all he’s done.”
Turning Frustration into Motivation
Lingard was equally open about the team’s recent struggles and the significance of the victory. “This was a huge result. We’ve played well recently but haven’t had the results. Today we turned that around. We always say we can beat anyone, and this was proof.”
On the Booing: “Fans Still Gave Us Strength”
Responding to a question about the jeers directed at manager Kim Gi-dong from sections of the home crowd, Lingard struck a composed tone. “The fans are so important to us. Today the atmosphere wasn’t easy, but some supporters still backed us and that gave us energy. We told ourselves to focus only on what we can control. That mindset got us the win.”
He credited the team’s younger players for rising to the occasion. “The younger lads showed real maturity today. We said before the match, ‘Let’s stick to the basics: run, tackle, fight for the badge.’ And we did.”
His Own Performance and Substitution
Asked about his own passionate display and quick substitution, Lingard smiled. “I told the gaffer, just casually, ‘Why’d you take me off so early?’” he joked. “But I trust the plan. We’ve got a deep squad, and everyone played their part.”
Adapting to the Korean Summer
Now entering his second Korean summer, Lingard also shared how he’s handling the climate. “I think I’ve adapted well,” he said. “Dugandžić and Kilmala are still adjusting, but we’ve got a fantastic fitness coach in Juninho. His energy is infectious. We’ve been putting in the work, in the gym and on the pitch.”
A Win That Might Change the Season
As the Ki Sung-yueng saga continues to unfold, Lingard’s performance and words offered a rare glimpse into the dressing room’s perspective — respectful, resolute, and ready to move forward.
With their foreign contingent firing and key players stepping up, FC Seoul may well have turned a corner — even as one of their greatest ever prepares to move on.