New Delhi: Gwangju FC were still in South Korea’s second division but after two years under the leadership of rookie manager Lee Jung-Hyo, who is also called “Korean Mourinho” they have become the top contenders in the AFC Champions League. Lee’s bold tactics and fiery personality have drawn comparisons to the legendary Jose Mourinho and have quickly turned Gwangju into one of the competition’s surprise packages.
Last year, they were tipped for certain relegation, yet they exceeded all expectations and finished third in K-League 1. While their domestic campaign has regressed slightly this season, they are currently sitting in 7th position and are competing in the relegation round rather than the championship round for the final five games.
From underdogs to contenders
Gwangju’s rapid rise in Asian football have been fueled by Lee’s visionary tactics and a squad with impressive depth. Their 7-3 demolition of Yokohama F. Marinos in their ACL debut was a statement of intent with Jasir Asani grabbing the headlines through a sensational hat-trick. Even more impressively Gwangju managed to keep key players like Gabriel Tigrao and Beka Mikeltadze on the bench while demonstrating the depth they have at their disposal. Both players eventually came on to score further underscoring their potential.
FT | 🇰🇷 Gwangju FC 7️⃣-3️⃣ Yokohama F. Marinos 🇯🇵
أداء مذهل من Gwangju FC بفوز ساحق على Yokohama F. Marinos! ✨#ACLElite | #GWAvFMA pic.twitter.com/O2gAOQJ454
— JUST FOOTBALL (@justfootball78) September 17, 2024
Followed by another victory by a scoreline of 1-0 against Kawasaki Frontale, a top J1 League team. This was no fluke Gwangju’s well-drilled pressing and sharp defensive work frustrated Kawasaki, whose lineup featured seasoned stars such as Akihiro Ienaga and Yu Kobayashi. Asani once again proved to be the difference as he converted a penalty to seal the victory.
HIGHLIGHTS | 🇯🇵 Kawasaki Frontale 0️⃣-1️⃣ Gwangju FC 🇰🇷
Gwangju FC maintain their winning start via Jasir Asani’s first half penalty!
Match Report 🔗 https://t.co/CECUWT99Hm#ACLElite | #KWFvGWA pic.twitter.com/rVCU49NJDC
— #ACLElite | #ACLTwo (@TheAFCCL) October 2, 2024
Despite these remarkable results, Gwangju’s squad rotation between matches highlights the strategic foresight that Lee brings to the table. His ability to manage resources effectively will be tested in the coming matches as they compete on both domestic and international fronts.
A manager with a vision
It’s no accident that Lee Jung-Hyo is being addressed as the “Korean Mourinho.” His outspoken nature and occasional controversial remarks have drawn parallels with the Portuguese tactician Jose Mourinho. The 49-year-old’s tactical approach is though far more aligned with the modern-day tacticians of the game. Lee openly admires Pep Guardiola, Mikel Arteta, and Roberto De Zerbi, the managers who have made a mark for themselves and are known for their forward-thinking and attacking mindset in football.
Rather than resting on his laurels after Gwangju’s successful 2023 season, Lee spent the offseason analyzing Premier League matches expanding his football knowledge in Europe. He was particularly interested in how elite teams like Arsenal structure their defense and build from the back.
His fascination with modern tactics have shaped Gwangju’s current playing style. Lee’s side plays with high-pressing intensity pushing their fullbacks forward and allowing their center-backs to carry the ball into midfield. Park Tae-Jun who is deployed as a defensive midfielder not only serves as a shield for the defense but also plays a key role in their build-up play.
Lee has built a system based on fluidity, attacking intent, and adaptability which makes Gwangju a force to reckon with in the ACL.
Fresh breeze…
Gwangju FC players celebrating after scoring in the AFC Champions League. (Image via 광주FC facebook)
Gwangju’s approach to the AFC Champions League have made them one of the most exciting teams to watch in this year’s competition. Their pressing game, dynamic fullbacks, and tactical versatility have caught opponents off guard. Lee’s commitment and his principles have breathed new life into the club making them a genuine contender on the continental stage.
Looking ahead to their upcoming fixture against Johor Darul Ta’zim, Gwangju will hope to maintain their flawless record in the competition. Regardless of the result, Lee Jung-Hyo’s impact on Gwangju’s transformation is undeniable. The “Korean Mourinho” is not only making waves in the AFC Champions League but also signaling the beginning of a new era for South Korean football.
As Gwangju continues to take the AFC Champions League by storm under Lee Jung-Hyo’s tactical brilliance and unwavering ambition, they may advance even deeper into the competition. And who knows, this rookie coach might soon find himself mentioned alongside the managers he once admired from afar
