Lee Kang-in sustained a left thigh injury during the FIFA Intercontinental Cup final against CR Flamengo on December 18, 2025, prompting an analysis of his absence's impact on PSG. With Lee Kang-in, a crucial player, sidelined, PSG's tactical stability is in jeopardy, potentially affecting the team's overall performance negatively.
While PSG announced that Lee Kang-in would be 'out for several weeks,' his recovery remains uncertain. The initially predicted return in early January 2026 seems unlikely, and he is expected to miss at least five matches. This setback could severely impact the team's morale and performance.
Examining Lee Kang-in's injury history and current recovery process, he is engaging in a tailored rehabilitation program but has yet to rejoin team training. This scenario adds challenges to coach Christophe Galtier's tactical decisions. Given Lee's crucial role in forward pressing and dribbling for PSG’s offensive play, his absence may slow the overall attack momentum.
Statistics show that Lee Kang-in has made significant contributions this season, appearing in 15 matches and recording 5 goals and 3 assists, enhancing PSG's tactical diversity with his creativity and scoring ability. Therefore, finding tactical alternatives is imperative to cover his absence.
Consequently, Coach Galtier will need to give opportunities to other players and explore new tactical combinations. Candidates considered include attacking midfielders and potential flank players. Utilizing these players could help PSG maintain their offensive threat despite Lee's absence.
In conclusion, the impact of Lee Kang-in's injury goes beyond the absence of a single player, posing various challenges to PSG's tactical flexibility and match conduct. With the uncertainty of his return in upcoming games, PSG must thoroughly analyze the situation and find optimal solutions.