Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) faces a significant challenge in their January roster strategy due to the delayed return of their key midfielder, Lee Kang-In. Initially, the football statistics site 'FootMob' projected that Lee would return by early January 2026; however, his comeback remains uncertain, which is likely to impact manager Luis Enrique's tactical plans considerably.
In the 2025 FIFA Intercontinental Cup final against Flamengo, Lee suffered a left thigh injury, which resulted in an early substitution. PSG subsequently announced that Lee would be absent for several weeks. Although he was expected to resume team training by late December, as of December 31st, he has not yet returned. This situation hints at either a more severe injury than first thought or unforeseen complications in his rehabilitation.
From a tactical standpoint, Lee's absence could significantly hinder PSG's midfield and attacking dynamics. Known for his excellent ball control, precision in passing, and occasional incisive plays and shots, Lee has played a crucial role as a catalyst in PSG's attack. His ability to switch between flanks and central positions and actively engage in build-up play, while deftly exploiting gaps between the opposing defensive lines, has been integral to Enrique's fluid tactical structure. His creative passes and dribbles have frequently dismantled static situations and opened avenues for attack. The lack of such contributions might adversely affect the team's offensive tempo and precision.
Furthermore, PSG is currently without Achraf Hakimi and Ibrahima Mbaye, who are participating in the Africa Cup of Nations. Coupled with Hakimi's crucial absence in the flank, the midfield is further strained by Lee's unavailability, making Enrique's squad management even more challenging given the already thin roster. With January's demanding schedule comprising league matches and cup competitions, squad depth becomes especially crucial. The limited ability to utilize rotation resources may increase the physical toll on starting players, risking an escalation of injuries in a vicious cycle.
Considering Lee's positioning and play style, tactical adjustments from Enrique appear inevitable to fill his void. While players like Vitinha and Fabian Ruiz might partially cover Lee's role in midfield, replicating Lee's unique dribble breakthroughs and sharp through-passes will be challenging. Lee, capable of functioning as an attacking midfielder or winger, previously provided Enrique with diverse tactical choices. However, those options have now narrowed considerably. Although this situation might allow younger players opportunities, the need for Enrique to sustain tactical coherence will undoubtedly deepen his deliberations.
Lee's delayed return not only has short-term implications on PSG's performance but also poses a significant factor affecting his overall season trajectory. Fully recovering and returning at peak condition remains paramount for Lee, and PSG must approach this with careful consideration of his health. Football fans eagerly anticipate how PSG will navigate Lee's absence and this crisis in January, alongside when Lee will make a healthy return to the pitch.
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