“I was really cringing, thank you”.
Daejeon Hana Citizen drew 1-1 away to Jeonbuk Hyundai in the 28th round of the Hana One Q K League 1 2023 at Jeonju World Cup Stadium on the 25th.
The player who received the most attention on the day was Bae Jun-ho 메이저사이트(Daejeon). Bae has recently been linked with a move to Stoke City in the English Championship.
Currently, the agreement between Daejeon and Stoke City has been finalised. Only personal terms remain to be agreed. Italian side Torino were interested in Bae and talks were ongoing, but the more aggressive Stoke City made an official offer and the transfer was tipped to go through.
“Stoke City are in advanced talks to sign Bae Jun-ho,” said Football Insider, “The striker scored three goals in seven games at the U-20 World Cup, helping South Korea to a fourth-place finish. Stoke City see him as a player who can play up front and add creativity to their attack.”
Bae was a mainstay of the South Korea U-20 team led by Kim Eun-joong in June, wearing the number 10 shirt at the U-20 World Cup Argentina 2023.
At the height of the U-20 World Cup, FIFA highlighted Bae Jun-ho on its official website as South Korea’s Player of the Week, saying: “His creativity and unpredictability have played a key role in the Taeguk Warriors’ challenge. Whenever he catches the ball, Korean fans scream and opponents panic.”
After the U-20 World Cup, Bae Jun-ho returned to his club Daejeon Hana Citizen to play in the K League 1.
In a post-match press conference, Bae said, “I was desperate for a win. I think we can win next time,” he said.
When asked about his transfer to Stoke City, Bae said, “It’s progressing positively. I think the final decision will be made in the next week or so,” he said.
“Stoke City were the most active in showing interest. I know they were the most active among many teams. It won’t be easy, but I want to settle in quickly and play my heart out,” he added.
Bae was also determined: “It was important for me to get playing time. It’s a high-level league. I thought I could be competitive. I want to get a lot of chances and show a good performance.”
The fans in Daejeon sent messages of support. After the game, they handed Bae Jun-ho a picket sign asking him to go to Europe and then come back.
“Coach Lee Min-seong, the club, and Hana Financial Group have been very supportive, and I cried when I saw the support from the fans. I am so grateful to the fans. Their support has given me the opportunity to grow and grow.”