Lee Kang-in (24) has completed preparations to take the pitch for the first time in the jersey of his new club, Atletico Madrid. On the 6th, Atletico announced the 27-man squad for the 2026 Coupang Play Series through its official website, and with Lee Kang-in's name included, a debut in front of Korean fans has become highly likely.

From Transfer Rumors to Reality... Atletico Move via PSG

The connection between Atletico and Lee Kang-in dates back to his days at RCD Mallorca. At the time, the move fell through when he chose Paris Saint-Germain FC (PSG), but after experiencing a league title and back-to-back UEFA Champions League triumphs at PSG, Lee felt the limitations of the competition for a starting spot and sought more playing time. Ultimately, on the 25th of last month, he officially completed his transfer to Atletico, opening a new chapter.

However, he was unable to immediately join the team during their preseason schedule in Spain. Although he received military service exemption benefits through a gold medal at the 2023 Hangzhou Asian Games, the additional paperwork required due to his club change took longer than expected. Lee remained in Korea, unable to join Atletico's preseason in Sweden, and maintained his physical condition following a training program provided by the club. Atletico's medical staff and fitness coaches visited Korea to support his conditioning.

Included in 27-Man Squad for Coupang Play Series... Ruggeri Excluded Due to Transfer Proceedings

The squad list featuring Lee's name includes a host of key players, including goalkeeper Jan Oblak, defenders Jose Gimenez and David Hancko, midfielder Koke, and forward Ademola Lookman. Mateo Ruggeri was left off the list due to ongoing transfer proceedings with Aston Villa.

In his first official interview after joining Atletico, Lee said, "I am truly happy and delighted to join such a great club," adding, "I want to quickly meet my new teammates, the manager, the coaching staff, and the fans who are considered among the best in the world." He continued, "I have prepared myself in the best possible physical condition so I can join the team right away," expressing his determination to "achieve the team's overall goals." Recalling his experience playing away matches at Atletico's home stadium, the Metropolitano, as a member of Valencia and Mallorca, he added, "It feels truly special that I now belong to this team."

Showdown with Manchester City on the 9th... Inherits Number 7 Jersey

Atletico will face Manchester City in a preseason match on the 9th at 8:00 PM at the Seoul World Cup Stadium. City sharpened their competitive edge with a 3-1 victory over Team K-League the previous day. The two teams faced each other in Korea last year, with Atletico winning 2-1.

Lee is preparing for his first match wearing the number 7 jersey previously worn by Antoine Griezmann. His actual participation and playing time will depend on manager Diego Simeone's decision. Recently, footage of Lee training in an Atletico kit at FC Seoul's GS Champions Park in Guri was made public. With the club arranging the schedule to facilitate his reunion with the squad, his debut in front of domestic fans is imminent.

Lee expressed his anticipation, saying, "I just want to take the field as soon as possible. There are really only a few days left now."