Jesse Lingard is set to leave FC Seoul for a new challenge after less than two years, despite the South Korean club offering him a contract extension beyond this year.
Former Manchester United star Jesse Lingard has broken silence on his shock exit from FC Seoul. The 32-year-old will leave the club next week after mutually agreeing to terminate his contract in South Korea.
Lingard moved to the K League on a free transfer in February 2024 and he went on to play 66 times – scoring 18 goals. The former England international was also the club captain for the majority of his time at the Seoul World Cup Stadium.
The midfielder will now make one final appearance for the club in the AFC Champions League next week against Melbourne City. Kim Gi-dong’s side is currently fourth after five games, with Melbourne above them in second by just one point.
Posting his farewell to supporters on his Instagram page, Lingard wrote: “After positive discussions with FC Seoul, we have mutually agreed that I will be leaving the club at the end of the 2025 season, with my final game now on December 10th.
“This wasn’t an easy decision. My time in South Korea has been unbelievable – the football, the atmosphere, and the passion around this club have been top-class. The love, support, and the appreciation you’ve shown towards me for these last 2 years has been truly amazing.
“Playing football here has been an unforgettable experience and one I will always value. 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.”
Seoul have confirmed that a contract extension was offered to Lingard, but the ex-United man had expressed a desire for a ‘new challenge’. A club statement read: “FC Seoul’s Lingard is the most valuable player in K League history. He has represented FC Seoul for the past two years, demonstrating a unique presence that not only boosts the team’s performance but also significantly enhances the brand value and prestige of the club.
“He has also created a sensation, becoming a symbol of not only the team, but also the entire K League. FC Seoul has been pursuing an extension option for Lingard, allowing him to remain with the club for a longer period.
“However, Lingard has expressed his deep satisfaction with his time at FC Seoul over these past two years and respects the club, but believes now is the right time to take on a new challenge and has expressed his desire to embark on the next stage of his football journey.
“FC Seoul had a long and deep conversation with Lingard to persuade him to stay with the team a little longer, but Lingard’s will was clear, and above all, Lingard’s dedication to the team over the past two years and his role as captain symbolized FC Seoul beyond his status as a foreign player, so FC Seoul decided to accept the player’s request with gratitude and respect.
“FC Seoul would like to express its infinite respect and gratitude to Lingard, who has consistently done everything for the team while rewriting the history of the K League and the club, and will also send its full support to the player for his decision that must have taken a long time to consider and for his new challenge.
“Lingard will wear the red and black uniform for FC Seoul in their final match against Melbourne in the ACLE League Stage 6 match to be held at Seoul World Cup Stadium on Wednesday, December 10th.”
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