Asia's greatest footballer — Champions League winner and the player who could mark anyone.
Park Ji-sung was born in Seoul, South Korea in 1981. PSV Eindhoven developed him — winning the Eredivisie — before Manchester United paid £4 million in 2005. His seven United seasons produced four Premier League titles and the 2008 Champions League. Sir Alex Ferguson used him most valuably against elite opponents — assigning him to neutralise Xavi, Iniesta or Pirlo in big matches. He was the player who could run for 90 minutes in any direction at full pace while maintaining his defensive structure. He became the most celebrated Asian footballer in Premier League history. He helped South Korea reach the World Cup semi-final in 2002 — the country's greatest footballing achievement. He represented South Korea 100 times. His combination of tireless work rate, tactical intelligence and the reliability to perform his assigned role in the biggest matches without fail made him one of the most trusted players in Sir Alex Ferguson's squad during the club's most successful modern era.
Champions League (2008)
Sir Alex Ferguson reportedly said he could nullify any world-class midfielder — famously keeping Kaká, Xavi and Iniesta quiet in Champions League matches.
Did You Know?Career Honours
- Champions League (2008)
- Premier League 4x
- FIFA World Cup semi-final (Korea 2002)