English midfielder Jesse Lingard has finally penned a deal for South Korean club FC Seoul, leaving many football fans shocked. The former Manchester United and Nottingham Forest player has been a free agent since last summer, after being released by the latter post a forgetful year at the club. Lingard, 31, made quite some headlines after sacking his agents, including family members, in order to secure a new club.
Lingard’s move to Seoul surprised many because of the randomness of the transfer, but the Englishman explained why he chose the move to Asia after rejecting multiple offers. Before moving to Forest on a permanent deal, the player also had a successful loan spell with West Ham, where he scored 9 goals in his 16 appearances throughout all competitions. This made Premier League enthusiasts hopeful of his future involvement in England.
However, after multiple deal collapses that led to him firing his agents, Lingar is all set to begin a new chapter in Asia. Before making the Seoul move, Lingard was linked to a move to Saudi Pro League club Al Ettifaq in October, which ultimately collapsed and left him without a club yet again.
SINCERITY WAS THE KEY: LINGARD
Speaking about his unlikely transfer, Lingard explained the true reason behind his move: the eagerness and sincerity shown by Seoul, which, he said, wasn’t the case with his other offers.
“Other clubs only made verbal offers. FC Seoul sent a written offer. Club officials showed their sincerity by coming to Manchester to check on my physical condition. At that time, I decided to sign with FC Seoul,” Lingard said in a press conference.
Lingard has always been vocal about his club scenario, which was also evident in his announcement video for his new club. The player will be looking at the new Asian challenge as an opportunity to revamp his career.
“I’ve always wanted different challenges and to create new memories in my career, and I believe being in South Korea is the perfect place for that,” Lingard said in the video.
FC Seoul will play against Japanese club Roasso Kumamoto for a friendly on February 14, 2024, where Lingard could be seen making his Asian debut with high expectations.
Lingard’s career consists of many accolades, including the Europa League, FA Cup and the Carabao Cup with United, where he started as an academy player. Lingard made 232 appearances for the Red Devils and was often considered one of the most promising players during his younger days at the club.
