News: Jesse Lingard to leave FC Seoul

FC Seoul have announced that the club will part ways with Lingard at the end of the 2025 season, as his contract will not be renewed.

As one of the highest-profile players in K League history, Lingard has represented FC Seoul over the past two years, not only bolstering the team but also greatly elevating the club’s brand value and stature. He created a sensational buzz, becoming more than just a key figure for the team and emerging as a symbol of the entire K League. Because of this, FC Seoul had pursued the option to extend his contract.

However, although Lingard expressed deep satisfaction with his time at FC Seoul over the last two years and showed respect for the club, he believes that now is the right moment to take on a new challenge and begin the next stage of his football journey.

FC Seoul held long and sincere talks with Lingard and attempted to persuade him to stay longer, but his intention was clear. Moreover, considering the dedication he has shown over the past two years—serving even as captain at times and becoming an emblematic figure well beyond the status of a foreign player—the club decided to respect his wishes and accept his request with gratitude and appreciation.

Via FC Seoul press release

FC Seoul extends its deepest respect and gratitude to Lingard, who has consistently given everything to the team while rewriting the history of the K League and the club. The club also fully supports his decision, recognizing the long consideration that went into it, and will cheer for him as he takes on his new challenge.

Lingard will play his final match for FC Seoul wearing the red and black shirt on Wednesday, December 10th, in the ACL Elite league stage Match Day 6 match against Melbourne City at Seoul World Cup Stadium.

via FC Seoul press release

Lingard took to Instagram to release a statement, which read:

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 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 have 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.

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A post shared by JLingz (@jesselingard)