Asian Champions League record-holder for most goals retires after 23 years

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

 

Another Asian legend in the world of football decided to hang up his spikes.

After 23 illustrious years in the K-League 1 and the Asian Champions League, Lee Dong-gook, who holds the record for the most goals scored in both leagues, thinks it’s about time for the next chapter in his career.

Lee struck 228 K-League goals under his belt and totaled his Champions League goals to 37 in 75 match appearances.

“I made the decision to retire as I believe it is not the end, but a start to something new,” said the South Korean superstar striker.

The star striker will play his last match in the K-League for Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors against the tough Daegu squad and fans are expecting one last dance from the legend.

Throughout his career, Lee also enjoyed stints with Werder Bremen in the German Bundesliga and the Middlesbrough club in the English Premier League.

“For the past 23 years, I have been loved and supported by so many people both on and off the field. I can take off my soccer boots with more gratitude than regrets,” added the South Korean booter.