In the world-shaking 2002
World Cup
After that, Ahn faced a major career decision. As a result of the
Serie A
With his prospects dimming, he took the plunge and signed a contract with Premier League side Blackburn. However, a paper from Perugia put Ahn in a difficult position to get out of the
Serie A
He had to pay a fine of up to 3.8 million dollars. Fortunately, a Japanese company lent a helping hand, allowing Ahn to get out of debt and don the uniform of Shimizu Drums in Japan's J-League.
Imagine if Ahn Jung-hwan had made a successful move to Blackburn, he might have been the one to land on the top of the list ahead of Park Ji-Sung and Son.
England Premier Soccer League
of Korean players, wouldn't that be a shame?
In the face of this series of ups and downs, Ahn Jung-hwan firmly stated, "I am proud to represent the Korean
national soccer team
Be proud. I have gained a lot and paid a heavy price during this period of playing for the national team. I have encountered a lot of setbacks and challenges on my way to fight for my country, but I have always tried to overcome them, and as a human being, I am proud of Han
national soccer team
Did my best."
In Germany in 2006
World Cup
On the eve, Ahn had a chance to join the La Liga, but ended up moving to the German team Duisburg. Talking about the experience, he said, "The national team's coaching staff advised me to travel to Germany to prepare for the game
World Cup
. And in the game against Togo, I scored the winning goal to give Korea the
World Cup
on the first road win."
in Qatar
World Cup
At the group stage draw ceremony, Ahn Jung-hwan was caught on camera praying before the Group E draw between Spain and Germany. Despite Japan's unfortunate entry into Group E, the "Group of Death," and South Korea's entry into Group H, Ahn said, "I prayed that South Korea wouldn't be drawn into Group E while chanting a mantra. Of course, Group H is also full of challenges, but there is still hope and opportunity."
"I went down the tunnel with the material."
Reflecting on his soccer career, Ahn told a story about his grueling student days. He said, "In high school, I worked as a handyman in a wooden hole at a subway construction site. I walked down the tunnel with materials," he recalled.
On the day of the interview, Ahn was teaching soccer to children at the women's soccer stadium in Songpa-gu, Seoul. He donated all 200 million won from the podcast he runs, Ahn Jung Hwan 19, to charity. He said, "I took up this cause because I wanted to help young people who have difficult families or who love soccer. So far, I have been loved by everyone, so I wanted to give back to them in this way."
This November, Ahn will travel to Qatar to serve as the
World Cup
The commentator for the match. In the corner of his car sits a book about Klopp and Guardiola. (edited by Soil and Water)
