2018 Season Preview: Incheon United

The 2018 Season is almost upon us and it seems like it maybe yet another long one for Incheon United.
(image via Incheon United FC)

Last Season

W7-D18-L13, final position 9th in the 2017 K League Classic.

What Happened?

Well not a lot. 18 draws sums up the season nicely as Incheon basically ground out points but failed to excite the fans very often. They finished the season scoring only 32 goals in 38 games, the lowest in the league. If it wasn't for a strong defence it would have been a lot worse.

Notable Moves

(IN) Go Seul-Ki

Former Ulsan Hyundai Midfielder Go Seul-Ki has joined on loan from Thai Champions Buriram United. The tall midfielder is a veteran these days and brings in some much needed experience into the Midfield.

(IN) Stefan Mugoša

Montenegrin International Stefan Mugoša is hopefully the goalscorer we've been missing for the past couple of seasons. He joins from Moldovan champions Sheriff Tiraspol having previously played in Germany as well as his home country of Montenegro. He's unproven in the K League but fingers crossed he comes good.


(OUT) Connor Chapman

Young Australian Connor Chapman quickly adapted to life in the K League last season and soon become a regular fixture in the Incheon starting XI. He joined K League rivals Pohang Steelers and will be missed at the back.

Needs

Based on last season Incheon need a lot, but here are my 2 key needs;

1 - Goals
As already mentioned Incheon were the leagues lowest scorer last season, and in 2016 they didn't do much better. At the end of the day goals win games, and with VAR disallowing more and more Incheon cannot afford to be gun shy in front of goal this season.

2 - Luck
Incheon like basically all K League sides last season suffered from the hands of poor refereeing and VAR. It may have been a reason why they focused on defence and picking up draws, over going for the full 3 points. A little bit of luck will be needed in order to survive the 2018 season.

Key Player 

Moon Seon-Min

This might come a slight surprising selection but I feel that based on last season and our additions over pre-season Moon Seon-Min could be key.
Last season was his first season back in the Korea following a number of years playing over in Sweden. He was mainly used as a sub or was subbed during the 2nd half. However he showed glimpses of real talent. His MOM performance against Suwon Bluewings comes to mind.
With a target man like Mugoša up front this season, a talented winger like Moon Seon-Min could be vital.

Biggest Question 

Can Incheon Survive Relegation Again?

The past 2 seasons Incheon have survived, but neither season was pretty. They look to have a solid squad heading into the 2018 season, but when compered to others in the relegation battle it doesn't look good.
It's not going to be an easy season once again for Incheon United, but they have the tools and the fan base to finish mid-table if things go well. However on the flip-side, if things go badly it could mean trips to Ansan and Bucheon in 2019.

Reason to Watch

Last season honestly Incheon weren't a great team to watch from a natural point of view. However this season they seem to be focusing on attacking signing and trying to plug the obvious gaps from last season. Time will tell for Incheon this coming season but as always hope springs eternal.

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