The South Korean U-22 national team, led by head coach Hwang Sun-hong, will have a warm-up match against the French U-21 team in Le Havre, France, on the 20th. France, a traditional powerhouse, has a lot of quality players, not only the adult national team but also the national team by age. Moreover, expectations are high as French legend striker Thierry Henry is at the helm.
Um Ji-sung was not originally selected as a member of the warm-up match, but he accompanied Ko Young-joon (Pohang Steelers) on an away trip to France due to injury.
Prior to joining the U-22 national team, he started as a left-side striker in the 36th round of the Hana One Q K League 1 2023 away match with Daegu FC. Um Ji-sung aimed for Daegu's goal with an active breakthrough and shot, but all soared high. Gwangju was satisfied with maintaining third place with a 1-1 draw in the match.
Um Ji-sung said, "In the beginning, I managed the game well, but it was difficult because I gave (the flow) at one point. I think I should reflect on myself because I didn't implement the tactic I wanted to do well," he said. "I had a good sense of shooting when I warmed up before the game. The grass was long and impatient, but I think it's my ability. Next time, I will shoot close to the net," he said, expressing his regret that he could not raise his performance ahead of joining the national team.
He will leave his team behind and will go on a two-week expedition to France wearing a national team uniform. Although there are regrets about the substitute selection, it is a good opportunity to find confidence and learn a lot through the match against France, a strong powerhouse.
Um Ji-sung said, "It's a chance to run into world-class players. I think I'm lacking something and I'll feel something to complement. It is a rare opportunity to learn a lot in Korea. "I'm going to have a run-in," he said, looking forward to playing in the match against France.
He also showed his pride as a member of the national team. Um Ji-sung said, "I was lucky to be selected. I think it's a good opportunity. I will have fun without getting hurt because I have pride in the Taegeuk mark," he said once again.