“I have been so happy here. It has been a fantastic two years.” With those words, Jesse Lingard, captain of K League 1 side FC Seoul, bid an emotional farewell to fans. Smiling as he began his remarks, Lingard soon broke down in tears as he said goodbye, bringing his time in Korea to a close. Lingard played his final match in a Seoul shirt, Dec. 10, at Seoul World Cup Stadium, facing Melbourne City in the sixth group-stage match of the 2025–26 Asian Football Confederation Champions League Elite. He marked the occasion with a first-half opener in the 31st minute, offering fans a “last gift” despite the 1-1 draw. The result mattered less than parting with teammates, club staff and supporters. “Over the past two years in Korea, I grew as a person,” Lingard said. “Becoming captain taught me responsibility, and I met teammates who will be friends for life. Seoul is a club that always aims for titles and first place. I will keep supporting a stronger Seoul from afar.” He later led fans in a familiar victory chant before shouting in Korean, “Thank you. I love you!” Those w