Valencia Club de Fútbol regrets letting Lee Kang-in go, who joined Atlético Madrid on July 25. The decision to expel the Korean player in 2021 is considered a historic mistake.
What happened?
Valencia Club de Fútbol decided to expel Lee Kang-in in 2021 to free up a non-EU player spot. The Korean player joined Mallorca and then Paris Saint-Germain.
Why it matters for Valencia Club de Fútbol
Lee Kang-in's departure is considered a historic mistake for Valencia Club de Fútbol. The team finished 14th in the La Liga table in the 2025 season, with 35 points and a goal difference of -12. Valencia Club de Fútbol is 44 points behind leaders Barcelona.
What comes next?
Lee Kang-in now wears the Atlético Madrid jersey, after joining the team on July 25. The Korean player has inherited the number 7 jersey of Antoine Griezmann. Valencia Club de Fútbol will receive a portion of Lee Kang-in's transfer fee, according to FIFA's solidarity contribution rules. The team will receive 1.4 million euros, which is a significant but small amount compared to the player's value.
