South Korean · Seoul, South Korea · Born 25 February 1981South Korean footballer who became the first Asian player to win the Champions League and made over 100 appearances for Manchester United between 2005-2012.
Park Ji-sung was born in Seoul, South Korea in 1981. PSV Eindhoven developed him — winning the Eredivisie — before Manchester United paid £4 million in 2005. His seven United seasons produced four Premier League titles and the 2008 Champions League. Sir Alex Ferguson used him most valuably against elite opponents — assigning him to neutralise Xavi, Iniesta or Pirlo in big matches. He was the player who could run for 90 minutes in any direction at full pace while maintaining his defensive structure. He became the most celebrated Asian footballer in Premier League history. He helped South Korea reach the World Cup semi-final in 2002 — the country's greatest footballing achievement. He represented South Korea 100 times. His combination of tireless work rate, tactical intelligence and the reliability to perform his assigned role in the biggest matches without fail made him one of the most trusted players in Sir Alex Ferguson's squad during the club's most successful modern era.
First Asian player to win the UEFA Champions League
Sir Alex Ferguson reportedly said he could nullify any world-class midfielder — famously keeping Kaká, Xavi and Iniesta quiet in Champions League matches.
Did You Know?How They Played
Box-to-box midfielder known for exceptional work rate, stamina and tactical discipline
Lasting Impact
Pioneering Asian footballer who broke barriers in European football and inspired a generation
Career Honours
- Champions League (2008)
- Premier League 4x
- FIFA World Cup semi-final (Korea 2002)
- Champions League 2008
- Premier League 2007
- Premier League 2008
- Premier League 2009
- Premier League 2011
- Club World Cup 2008
| Club | Period | Apps | Goals | Shirt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kyoto Purple Sanga | 2001–2003 | 85 | 13 | #13 |
| PSV Eindhoven | 2003–2005 | 85 | 12 | — |
| Manchester United | 2005–2012 | 205 | 13 | — |
| Myongji University | 2000–2000 | 0 | 0 | — |
| Queens Park Rangers | 2013–2014 | 17 | 2 | — |
 South Korea | — | 100 | 13 | — |
South Korean Athletes