Seoul: With the next FIFA World Cup six months away, South Korea head coach Hong Myung-bo is diligently monitoring the workload of the national team's core players with their respective clubs. Speaking to reporters after a scholarship awards ceremony for his namesake foundation, Hong emphasized the importance of maintaining communication with players' clubs, most of which are based in Europe, regarding their playing time as the tournament approaches.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Hong specifically mentioned Mainz 05 midfielder Lee Jae-sung, a key player for the national team and one of its most experienced at 33. Hong noted that when Lee played for South Korea in October and November, his club requested limited playing minutes, which the national team adhered to, resulting in Lee's improved form. Hong stressed the potential impact on the national team if Lee plays excessively for Mainz next May and is not in optimal physical condition. Thus, maintaining dialogue with players and clubs is crucial.

While several Europe-based players have recently performed well, an injury concern has emerged with star player Lee Kang-in of Paris Saint-Germain. Lee sustained a left hamstring injury during PSG's victory in the FIFA Intercontinental Cup final in Qatar and could be sidelined for several weeks. Hong acknowledged the unpredictability of player conditions come May, when he finalizes his World Cup squad, and emphasized the need to be prepared for any situation, including considering unexpected selections in case of injuries to key players.

Hong shared that the team has gathered extensive data on players over the past year, with some young players in Europe showing promising performances. Depending on their form in May, they might earn a spot in the World Cup squad. South Korea's next matches will be in March in Europe, including a game against Austria. The Korea Football Association (KFA) is also trying to arrange a match against an African team, as South Korea is set to face South Africa in Group A at the World Cup.

Hong revealed plans to send a scout to Morocco to observe South Africa during the Africa Cup of Nations tournament, marking the first encounter between the two nations. He highlighted the importance of understanding their formation and style of play, as well as assessing potential World Cup players.

Following March, the final match window before the World Cup will be in early June. While South Korea traditionally plays a final tune-up match at home before traveling abroad, next year they may head to Mexico early to acclimate to the high altitude, as all three group matches will be held there. Hong emphasized the significance of adapting to high altitude and the need for a scientific approach to avoid player fatigue, with ongoing consultations with experts to determine the best timing for travel to Mexico.