Despite the criticisms and challenges, Lingard remains undeterred. His career is not defined by failure, but by resilience, adaptability, and an unyielding love for the game.
Jesse Lingard has never been one to shy away from a challenge. Now plying his trade in South Korea with FC Seoul, the former Manchester United midfielder has dismissed suggestions that he failed to fulfill his potential in English football. For Lingard, his career is not one of regret, but of triumph.
In an exclusive interview with the Daily Mail, Lingard passionately defended his legacy. “I 100 per cent do not feel failure, I feel achievement. Just look at my story—from a seven-year-old kid in Warrington to playing for Manchester United and England. The percentages of that happening are minuscule, yet I made it. I got chosen.”
Lingard’s journey to the top was far from easy. A diminutive figure in his youth, he often had to play in younger age groups due to his size. But that never deterred him. Moving away from home at just 12 years old, he dedicated his life to football, overcoming the doubts and challenges that came his way.
“You have to work hard. You leave your family, switch schools, adapt to a different environment. I was the smallest kid, but I kept pushing. I’ve been through the mill from a football point of view, but I never stopped believing in myself.”
His achievements speak for themselves. Scoring in both domestic cup finals for Manchester United, representing England in the 2018 World Cup, and even netting on the world’s biggest stage—these are moments that define his career. “No one can ever take that away from me,” he asserts.
Now, in the bustling heart of Seoul, Lingard has embraced a new chapter. As the K-League’s most high-profile player, he finds himself adored by fans who see him as both a footballer and a personality.
“I love Seoul. It’s been amazing—so much to explore, great food, and passionate supporters. It gets crazy when I go out. Sometimes I wear a mask, but it doesn’t help! I always take pictures and sign autographs because one day, when I retire, no one will ask me anymore.”
Adjusting to South Korean football has been a learning curve. “The standard is high, very technical. Watching English football, you see more time and space on the ball, but here it’s relentless. The pressing is intense, and I get man-marked all the time.”
Despite the criticisms and challenges, Lingard remains undeterred. His career is not defined by failure, but by resilience, adaptability, and an unyielding love for the game.
