Former Manchester United and England midfielder Jesse Lingard is set to leave South Korean club FC Seoul after agreeing to a mutual termination of his contract.
A Surprise Move Comes to an End
The 32-year-old's departure marks the conclusion of a two-year stint that began with a shock free transfer move in February 2024. Lingard quickly became a central figure for the K League side, making 66 appearances, scoring 18 goals, and providing 10 assists. He also served as the team's captain for much of his tenure in the South Korean capital.
His final match for the club is scheduled for December 10th in an AFC Champions League fixture against Melbourne City. Reflecting on his time, Lingard stated the decision to leave was not easy, calling his experience "unbelievable" and praising the "top-class" football and atmosphere.
Club's Tribute and New Challenge Ahead
FC Seoul confirmed they had attempted to secure an extension with the player, but Lingard expressed a desire for a fresh challenge. In a glowing tribute, the club described him as a "symbol" for the entire K League and credited him with significantly boosting the team's performance and brand value.
"Lingard is the most valuable player in K League history," an official club statement declared. It praised his dedication and unique presence, noting he had "rewritten the history" of the league and the club during his two seasons.
Legacy and Looking Forward
Lingard's time at FC Seoul had notable highs, including helping the team qualify for the AFC Champions League by finishing fourth in his first season. However, the recently concluded 2024-25 campaign saw them finish sixth in the 12-team league.
In his farewell message, Lingard extended his gratitude: "I want to thank FC Seoul, my teammates, the staff, and everyone associated at the club for trusting me and welcoming me from day one. I’ll always be grateful for the opportunity to play for such a massive club." FC Seoul, in turn, stated they accepted his request "with gratitude and respect" and pledged their full support for his next step.
