"It wasn't easy to leave Ulsan..." Why did Im Jong-eun choose 'last year of career' in Daejeon after experiencing three consecutive losses?
"It wasn't easy to leave Ulsan..." Why did Im Jong-eun choose 'last year of career' in Daejeon after experiencing three consecutive losses?
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"It wasn't easy to leave, but it wasn't a difficult decision."
Lim Jong-eun, who graduated from Hyundai Middle School and Hyundai High School, received Ulsan's priority nomination through the 2009 K-League draft. Afterwards, he returned to Ulsan through Seongnam Ilhwa (currently Seongnam FC), Jeonnam Dragons, and Jeonbuk Hyundai, and contributed to Ulsan's third consecutive K-League 1 victory starting in the 2022 season.
"Personally, winning is always an honor," said Im Jong-eun, who was interviewed in Bangkok, Thailand. "I was very happy because I felt like I only had good memories during my time in Ulsan. Last season was eventful, but I think it was a satisfactory year as a result."
Lim has taken on a new challenge as he moved to the Hana Citizen team in Daejeon ahead of this season. "I wanted to spend my last career in Ulsan, but I decided to move because Daejeon recognized me and motivated me as a player," Lim said. "It wasn't easy to leave, but it wasn't difficult to make a decision. I think Ulsan fans will like it if I show them how good I am."
He added, "I feel pressured. I made some commitment after moving to Daejeon. As a player, I always have to show competitiveness. Rather than having to do something great beyond that, I think I have my role both internally and externally in the game."
Im Jong-eun, who was born in 1990, is now 34 years old and has become a veteran. He will turn 35 by the end of this season. "I'm always thinking about my second life. It's not like I can play for a long time. It can be changed anytime, but I'm thinking about it slowly. Nothing has been decided yet."
Pre-season Daejeon has strengthened its roster by making significant recruitment. Including Im Jong-eun, Ju Min-gyu, Jeong Jae-hee, Ha Chang-rae, and Bob Shin have been recruited. "Daejeon has shown good performance in the second half of last year as well. As there are many good players, we have high expectations. Daejeon will have a good chance of reaching Final A. You just have to prepare well," Im said.
"I always remember Ulsan having a hard time whenever I faced Daejeon. It was a team with a high energy level and there were many players who were fast in a straight line. I remember the fans were also passionate. First of all, we have to have faith in our team. When it's good or bad, if you have faith in yourself, you can achieve your goals enough," he added.
Lim has yet to participate in the training camp due to his fractured rib that he suffered in the Korea Cup final last season. "I am currently training with him little by little as I am nearing the end of my recovery and rehabilitation. I am not sure if I will be able to participate in the opening game, but I am progressing smoothly. I am feeling better as well," Lim said.
As for the conversation with Hwang, he said, "They talk a lot about injuries when we meet. They advised us not to feel pressured and take our time and recover well. Tactically, I didn't have anything special to say because I am not participating in the training yet. I just watch and listen to the team's training outside." 안전놀이터
Lastly, Im Jong-eun said, "It is more important to do my part when it comes to playing games than to desire to participate in games. There are many conditions for a strong team, but they have to show a certain level of performance. If there is a shortcoming, it is something you need to talk to and prepare with the players. We have so many experienced players in the team, and we are looking forward to it getting better."