Jung Sang-bin (20) is transferring to Minnesota United of the American Major League Soccer (MLS).
In January 2022, Jung Sang-bin left Suwon Samsung for a transfer fee of 1.2 million euros (approximately 1.7 billion won, based on transfer marks) and wore a Wolverhampton uniform. He was a top-class prospect that the K-League was proud of at the time, and was nicknamed ‘K-Mbappe’. As his potential was recognized, he stepped on the European stage at an early age.
He was immediately loaned to Grasshoppers (Switzerland). Due to work permit (work visa) problems, a 1 year and 6 month lease was concluded. Jung Sang-bin played 6 games (175 minutes) during the second half of the 2021-22 season.
It was his highly anticipated 2022-23 season, but an ankle injury became a problem. He struggled to become a starting pitcher after two long breakaways. Even if he played, it was a big disappointment because he was frequently substituted. He played 9 matches, including the cup competition, but failed to record an offensive point.
In the end, he said goodbye to Grass Hopper. On the 18th (Korean time), Grasshopper officially announced on the club’s website, “The club and Wolverhampton have agreed to terminate the lease of Jung Sang-bin immediately.” Director Burnt Haas Grasshopper said, “We are grateful for Jeong Bin’s dedication. He had difficulties coming to an unfamiliar environment at a young age, but he always showed strong motivation and a professional appearance. We wish Sangbin Jeong a bright future.” 안전놀이터
Jeong Sang-bin did not return to Wolverhampton, but headed straight to Minnesota. The Minnesota local magazine ‘Twin Cities’ said, “Jung Sang-bin has arrived in Minnesota.
He added, “Jang Sang-bin signed a one-year extension option to the basic three-year contract with Minnesota. He will permanently transfer from Wolverhampton to Minnesota.”
MLS started at the end of February, and Minnesota played two games, winning one and drawing one. They belong to the Western Conference and are in 7th place. Last season, they finished 6th and made it to the playoffs. And the journey ended with a loss to 3rd place FC Dallas in a penalty shootout.
Jeong Sang-bin has now given up his dream of debuting in the English Premier League (EPL) and set out on a new stage. He steps on MLS with the goal of a comeback.