Jesse Lingard officially announces club exit

Ruben Amorim continues shaping Manchester United’s long-term squad plans behind the scenes, with the club expected to accelerate both incoming and outgoing discussions before the January window opens.

Several United players currently out on loan are also due for internal reviews this month, with staff monitoring their development ahead of next summer’s squad rebuild.

The club’s recruitment department is similarly tracking opportunities abroad, especially in Asian and American markets, where emerging commercial and football partnerships have become increasingly important to the INEOS model.

And as United remain attentive to every major movement involving former players at top level, a notable development arrived from South Korea.

Only after those updates has a major story come to light involving a former Old Trafford star whose next move will generate significant attention.

FC Seoul have officially announced, via their website, that the club will part ways with Jesse Lingard at the end of the 2025 season, confirming that his contract will not be renewed.

The K League giants praised Lingard as one of the most high-profile players in the league’s history, highlighting how he boosted the team both on the pitch and commercially.

His arrival created a wave of excitement across South Korean football, elevating the club’s profile to unprecedented levels and transforming him into one of the defining figures of the division.

FC Seoul had been eager to extend his stay, but while Jesse Lingard was grateful for his two years at the club, he felt the moment had come to seek a new challenge.

The club revealed that, after long and sincere talks, they respected his decision, especially given his leadership, commitment and impact, including serving as captain and becoming far more than a typical foreign signing.

FC Seoul said: “FC Seoul extends its deepest respect and gratitude to Lingard, who has consistently given everything to the team while rewriting the history of the K League and the club.

“The club also fully supports his decision, recognizing the long consideration that went into it, and will cheer for him as he takes on his new challenge.”

His final match will take place on Wednesday, December 10th, against Melbourne City in the ACL Elite league stage at Seoul World Cup Stadium.

Lingard then released his own statement on Instagram, writing:

“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.

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.”

Despite the pleas from FC Seoul supporters, he has decided it is time to move on.