Seoul: Fresh off securing their league-record 10th title, Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors showcased their dominance by placing six players in the season-end K League 1 Best XI squad, as unveiled on Monday.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the K League announced the voting results for the annual best-of-season team, with selections made by media, club head coaches, and club captains. Jeonbuk's goalkeeper Song Bum-keun stood out, earning his first career Best XI nod after leading the league with 15 clean sheets. His stellar performance helped Jeonbuk concede the fewest goals, 32 in 38 matches, throughout the season. Song received overwhelming support, garnering 127 out of 134 votes from media, along with significant backing from head coaches and captains, translating to 80.41 points.
Traditionally, Ulsan HD FC's goalkeeper Jo Hyeon-woo had been a staple in the Best XI team for the past eight seasons. However, this year, he wasn't even nominated, paving the way for Song's recognition. Song expressed his confidence in breaking Jo's streak, stating, "In the past, I always wondered, 'Will I make the team this time?' But this year, I felt confident."
Jeonbuk's presence in the Best XI extended beyond their goalkeeper. Center back Hong Jeong-ho earned his fifth career Best XI selection, accompanied by Yazan Al-Arab of FC Seoul. Among the fullbacks, Daejeon Hana Citizen FC's Lee Myung-jae and Kim Moon-hwan were recognized for their performances. The midfield was dominated by Jeonbuk players, with Song Min-kyu, Kim Jin-gyu, Park Jin-seob, and Kang Sang-yoon making the cut.
Jeonbuk's captain, Park Jin-seob, not only secured a spot in the Best XI but was also nominated for the MVP award, with the winner set to be announced on Monday afternoon. Joining him as MVP candidates were forwards Pablo Sabbag of Suwon FC and Lee Dong-gyeong of Ulsan HD FC, both of whom also made it to the Best XI. Sabbag led the league with 17 goals, while Lee contributed significantly with 13 goals and 11 assists during his mandatory military service, adding an assist post-discharge for Ulsan.