AFC Player Lee Kang-In wins Asia’s top honor after guiding Paris Saint-Germain to a historic quadruple, proving himself as the best AFC Player in Europe
The remarkable journey of AFC Player Lee Kang-In reached a new peak at the AFC Awards 2025 in Riyadh, where the South Korean midfielder was crowned the AFC Asian International Player of the Year. This honor confirms his outstanding contribution to Paris Saint-Germain’s historic quadruple-winning season and his growing status as one of the most influential Asian footballers in Europe.
At just 24, AFC Player Lee Kang-In has established himself as a creative force at PSG, guiding the French champions through a record-breaking season. Competing against Japan’s Takefusa Kubo and Iran’s Mehdi Taremi, Lee’s composure, technical brilliance, and vision distinguished him from his peers. His recognition as the best international AFC Player is a fitting tribute to his pivotal role in PSG’s dominant run across all competitions.
Lee Kang-In’s Triumph with Paris Saint-Germain
The 2024–2025 season will be remembered as one of PSG’s most successful campaigns. The club secured a stunning quadruple that included the UEFA Champions League, Ligue 1, Coupe de France, and Trophée des Champions. Throughout the season, Lee was instrumental in shaping the team’s creative play.
In 49 appearances, he scored seven goals and provided six assists, but his influence went far beyond numbers. The young AFC Player controlled the tempo of games, linked midfield to attack seamlessly, and delivered crucial performances in the Champions League knockout rounds. His role in PSG’s first-ever Champions League triumph was especially historic, as he became only the second South Korean player to lift the trophy.
This achievement cemented his reputation as a dependable performer capable of thriving under immense pressure.
Symbol of South Korean Excellence
AFC Player Lee Kang-In’s award continues a proud tradition of South Korean dominance in Asian football. His win marks the fourth consecutive year a South Korean has earned the title of AFC International Player of the Year, following Son Heung-min and Kim Min-jae. This ongoing streak reflects the strength of South Korea’s football development and the consistent quality of its exports to top European clubs.
Although Lee could not attend the Riyadh ceremony due to his busy club schedule, his victory was celebrated across Asia. From being named AFC Young Player of the Year in 2019 to now becoming the continent’s best international footballer, Lee’s rise has been steady and well-deserved.
AFC Player Lee Kang-In: A True Asian Ambassador
Beyond club football, AFC Player Lee Kang-In continues to be an essential figure for the South Korean national team. In the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, he has contributed five goals and six assists, proving his ability to lead both domestically and internationally. His composure, creativity, and leadership have made him indispensable for his country, mirroring his influence at PSG.
This dual success highlights his versatility and adaptability, as he balances the pressures of elite European competition with the expectations of representing his nation.
As the 2025 AFC Player of the Year, Lee Kang-In embodies the spirit of Asian football excellence. For PSG, he represents creativity, discipline, and ambition. For Asia, he symbolizes progress, proving that players from the continent can achieve greatness on the global stage.
His journey from the youth academies of Incheon to the grandeur of Paris demonstrates determination and focus. By excelling in Europe’s most competitive league and contributing significantly to PSG’s historic success, AFC Player Lee Kang-In has become an ambassador for Asian talent worldwide.
At 24, he stands at the crossroads of legacy and potential. With years of peak performance ahead, his influence will continue to inspire the next generation of footballers across Asia.
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