Former Manchester United star Jesse Lingard has spoken about life in South Korea after his emotional exit from Old Trafford.
Lingard, 32, joined United at the age of seven and went on to make 232 appearances across all competitions for the Red Devils, scoring 35 goals.
He also lifted the UEFA Europa League and the FA Cup, among other trophies.
However, Linagrd's time at Old Trafford came to an end in the summer of 2022 after his contract expired.
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Reflecting on his exit, Lingard admitted that he cried on his last day as a United player.
Jesse Lingard opens up on emotional Manchester United exit
He told The Independent: "My application in training each day was always 100 per cent, you know… But, you come to a certain time where you need to leave.
"The last day, I was crying on the way home… to leave was obviously emotional but it was what I needed to do."
The midfielder moved to Nottingham Forest after their promotion to the Premier League but left the club at the end of the same season.
After a short break from football, Lingard signed for South Korean side FC Seoul in what was logistically the biggest move of his career to date.
Since moving to South Korea, Lingard has managed six goals in 26 matches for FC Seoul.
Opening up on his move to Asia, Lingard spoke about the experience of living in a new country and adapting on a new culture.
Jesse Lingard makes honest admission about life in South Korea
He said: "I didn't know what to expect but seeing the love and appreciation really settled me down and got my confidence up."
After throwing himself into his new surrounding a learning the language, Lingard began to feel his confidence grow.
He added: "I finally settled in. I started getting a couple of assists, a couple of goals, and your confidence goes up.
"When people ask for pictures, I always try. And, you know, when you finish your career, and you’re not getting the applause you’re used to, it can really hit you. I feel like just enjoying every moment."
The 32-year-old continued: "Even though I’m far away from my family and my daughter, last year I had a blast.
"My daughter and family came out. It was good. Sometimes it’s good to just get away and have a little bit of change. I’m still happy playing football, no matter where I am."
FC Seoul are back in action on Saturday when they take on Anyang at the Seoul World Cup Stadium.
Topics: Jesse Lingard, Manchester United, South Korea, Football
Marcus Chan