Lingard is to leave FC Seoul.placeholder image
Lingard is to leave FC Seoul. | Getty Images
The former Premier League midfielder had a famously impressive short loan spell at West Ham under David Moyes.
Ex West Ham and Manchester United midfielder Jesse Lingard is available on a free transfer after announcing that he will leave FC Seoul following his final game next week.
The 32-year-old joined the South Korean side in February last year and was hailed as the ‘biggest signing’ in K League history at the time. Lingard has now agreed to end his contract early after ‘positive discussions’ with club officials.
The player confirmed the decision with a statement on social media. He wrote: “After positive discussions with FC Seoul, we have mutually agreed that I will be leaving the club at the end of the 2025 season, with my final game on December 10th.
Jesse Lingard to leave FC Seoul
“This wasn’t an easy decision. My time in South Korea has been unbelievable — the football, the atmosphere, and the passion around this club have been top-class. The love, support and the appreciation you have shown towards me for these last 2 years has been truly amazing.
“Playing football here has been an unforgettable experience and one I will always value. I want to thank FC Seoul, my teammates, the staff, and everyone associated at the club for trusting me and welcoming me from day one. I’ll always be grateful for the opportunity to play for such a massive club.”
Lingard scored 18 goals and picked up 10 assists for Seoul and is now available on a free transfer once again. The midfielder initially joined the side on a free transfer following his departure from Nottingham Forest.
A product of the Manchester United academy, Lingard only spent the back end of the 2020/21 season on loan at West Ham but made a big impression in that campaign. Lingard managed nine goals and five assists, picking up the Premier League Player of the Month and Premier League Goal of the Month in April.
Ex Man Utd star views West Ham loan as ‘career highlight’
West Ham were keen to bring Lingard back to the London Stadium but a deal was unable to be struck with the Red Devils. Lingard had labelled his time with the Hammers as a ‘career highlight’. He said: "What a way to end the season.
"Reaching our goal with this incredible group of lads feels amazing! We pushed hard and never gave up! I feel so lucky to have been able to come into such a welcoming environment, everyone connected with the club has shown me just how special this club is.
"So thank you to the gaffer who had the belief in bringing me here. Thank you to all the staff that made it so easy for me to settle and embed into the club so quickly. Thank you to the coaches who helped me find my true self back on the pitch.
“Thank you to the fans who supported me from the second I arrived, It was amazing being able to play in front of you on the last day! And thank you to a special group of lads, as well as making some new lifelong friends training and playing with you all has been one of the highlights of my career! Whatever the future holds West Ham United will hold a special place in my heart!"
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