K League Preview: Nam Tae-hee Lands on Jeju Island; Can Ulsan’s Interim Coach Solve Recent Striker Drought?

At 18:30 on July 26, Matchday 25 of the K1 League sees Jeju United host Ulsan HD at their home ground.

Jeju United suffered a 0-4 defeat to Gangwon FC last weekend and currently sit in 8th place, with their goal being to break into the top six. Their recent form in the league has been a pattern of win-loss-win-loss-win-loss, showing significant inconsistency. The team has won three consecutive home matches recently. The humid climate at their home ground, especially given the heavy rain this morning in the area around the stadium, which is expected to continue until around 16:00 in the afternoon, leaving the pitch quite wet and very humid, can be both an enemy and a weapon for them. This level of humidity is particularly uncomfortable for the visiting team.

In terms of personnel, Nam Tae-hee, known as the “South Korean Messi” among fans in West Asia, has joined the team, and his presence should add creativity upfront. However, Nam only started training with the team on Tuesday, and his appearances in the J-League were irregular, so it is uncertain how fit he is. Recently, the signings of Garreco and Japanese import Yoshihara Keigo, along with Yuri Jonathan’s return from injury, have noticeably improved the team’s attacking resources.

Regarding injuries and suspensions, veteran player Ki Sung-yueng is the latest addition to the injury list, having just returned from an injury before getting hurt again. Lim Jae-min, Choi Yong-jun, and Song Ju-hyun are still recovering from long-term injuries. On a positive note, key midfielder Italo returns from suspension, bolstering the midfield.

For the visitors, Ulsan HD lost their last match, a Hyundai Derby, against second-to-last placed Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors. Under interim coach Lee Kyung-soo, they face the challenge of a lack of goals. They have scored only four goals in their last six league matches, and with such a low scoring rate, it will be difficult to reclaim the top spot.

In terms of personnel, Ludwig Augustinsson, who underwent surgery, is still recovering, and defensive stalwart Kim Young-gwon is unlikely to feature in this match. Fortunately, another defensive mainstay, Hwang Seok-ho, has returned, and experienced holding midfielder Jung Woo-young can also strengthen the squad depth. Poor-performing foreign player Kelvin was released, while new foreign signing Yago is gradually settling into the team.

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