Even Greater Heights: How FC Seoul Have Defied the Critics to Put Together Their Best Season Yet (So Far)
In the ever-evolving world of football, rebuilding often carries the expectation of a temporary setback — a dip in performance before ascending to new heights. Yet, in the case of FC Seoul, conventional wisdom cannot be applied. Going into his third year at the helm, ‘Magic’ Matheus has overseen a controversial transformation that has yielded even greater results:
- They have reached the knockout rounds of the AFC Champions League for the first time since 2016
- Sitting top of the K-League after 14 games with a record of nine wins, four draws and a single loss
“A risky strategy… but one that has paid off”
Losing such an array of players at the end of last season always had the potential to cause problems. Whether it was talismanic captain Stanislav Iljutcenko, club legend Go Yo Han, or, the now-most expensive departure in K-League history Kang Seong Jin, who joined Southampton for $7,000,000; the reigning, invincible champions of Korea were in need of a significant rebuild.
The recruitment strategy that followed garnered a mixed response. A small handful of experienced players arrived for no fees from clubs across the K-League: Hong Jeong Ho (30, CB, from Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors); Ko Seung Beom (29, CM, from Suwon Samsung Bluewings); and, winger Gustav Ludwigson (30, from Ulsan Hyundai). Some of these signings brought continental playing experience with them, which was a positive. But, beyond those acquisitions, there were no other deals.
Instead, a conscious choice was made to put trust in youth. The likes of Ji Ho Kong (18, AM); Song Dae Jung (17, CB); and, Kevin Jung (18, LB), have been acting as deputies in their respective positions across the pitch.
On one hand, it is obvious why Matheus of all people, having made his own first-team debut for FC Porto at the tender age of 16, would see age as just a number. But, it was a bold decision from all involved at FC Seoul, to rely upon raw, albeit talented, players for squad depth. None of them have truly set the world alight, but they have made solid contributions when called upon — and been rewarded with an increasing number of starts, especially in the K-League. Regardless, the minutes they have played will prove invaluable for their development, and for the club’s prospects in the coming years.
Continuity in the K-League and progression in the AFCCL
The end product of all that change and upheaval? Continued success — and more.
The clearest indication of their progression is in the AFC Champions League. In a strange twist of fate, they were drawn yet again alongside Al Hilal and Shandong Taishan, the two teams that humbled FC Seoul in the opening rounds of last year’s competition. But, this year, things went very differently. FC Seoul were unbeaten in the group, as they looked like the team that have blown away their rivals in the K-League for the last three seasons.
What is perhaps most impressive about their campaign was not the attacking performances; we have seen how profilic an attack coached by Matheus can be. Instead, it was the two goals conceded, the lowest from any team in the tournament. Matheus’ switch to a compact 5–4–1 in the away ties kept the likes of Salem Al-Dawsari; Luciano Vietto, and Romelu Lukaku at bay. “We have learnt from our experiences,” said Matheus after beating Al-Hilal 1–0 in Riyadh. “I think we all feel more at home in this competition now, far more like ourselves.”
Who are the key players in this current squad?
One notable player who has seamlessly integrated into Matheus’ team since his arrival last summer, is the former Barcelona midfielder André Gomes (2G, 8A in all competitions). Sensing the need for an experienced, technically-proficient playmaker in his side, Matheus pushed the club to pursue Gomes, whose contract at Everton was due to expire. Several meetings took place, and the maestro got a maestro of his own.
And, Gomes’ transition into an out-and-out number 10 has proved to be a resounding success. His vision, technical finesse, and ability to unlock defences with his incisive passes have made him a vital cog in the team’s offensive machinery.
Another player who has risen to prominence during this transition is the young Korean winger Yang Hyeon Joon. When he arrived from Gangwon FC in July of last year, the club made it clear that he was the long-standing choice to replace Kang Seong Jin.
Eyebrows were raised. Yes, he had potential; but he hadn’t scored or assisted in over 23 games. A year later, Yang has contributed 12 goals and five assists in 19 games. Like Kang before him, Yang has levelled up. His blistering pace, exceptional 1 v 1 dribbling skills, and far-more clinical finishing have made him the new Suhoshin favourite.
Other highlights have included 28-year-old Park Dong Jin (8G, 2A in all competitions) who has enjoyed his new role as the definitive number one striker, while Min Gyung Hyun, 21, has replaced Kim Jin Ya at right back with a string of attacking performances.
What’s to come for FC Seoul?
Matheus’ men await the draw for the first knockout round of the AFC Champions League. Potential ties could include Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr, who are the current champions; Al Ittihad featuring Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kante; or, fellow Korean challengers Ulsan Hyundai.
They will also hope that their continental campaign will not disrupt their efforts to win a third consecutive K-League title.
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