29 March 2023 , 22:59
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Napoli star Kim Min-jae has apologised on social media after claiming he "didn't want to focus on his national team" following a loss with South Korea.
The defender's comments resulted in an angry response after Uruguay secured a 2-1 win earlier in the week, which came days after they'd been held by Colombia. Kim has been a standout performer this term on the domestic scene with his side, Napoli, set to claim the Serie A title.
The Naples outfit haven't won the Italian top flight since the days of Diego Maradona and a host of their players have enjoyed breakout campaigns. As a result Kim has become a leading light for his country, but he had little desire to discuss national matters after their loss.
He said, as per Corriere dello Sport: “I am mentally tired and I only want to focus on my club at the moment, not on the national team, I have nothing more to say now."
The 26-year-old had become increasingly frustrated by a reporter's comments and snapped back, only for his words to be received poorly in his native South Korea. Kim has since issued an apology on social media, citing injury and fatigue for his outburst.
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He said: “I apologise to them and the players who were surprised by my words,” he said. “I had a minor injury and I have recovered. I’ve played many games and I never spared myself. I collapsed mentally and had an outburst. I apologise again and ask the fans always to support us.”
South Korea were undone by UruguayManchester United are among those eyeing Kim, who has played 35 games across all competitions for Napoli following an €18m move from Fenerbache last summer. He was part of the team that dismantled Liverpool 4-1 earlier this season and has a growing list of admirers.
The player has hit back at rumours linking him with a move away from Napoli: "As you know, those rumours are not true at all. I want to focus on my team. I have many tournaments to play. It's been four years I have had these rumours. It's uncomfortable. I wish you don't spread those stories. I cannot be bothered by transfer rumours because they aren't true. Now I'm focusing on the team, rather than that kind of nonsense."
The South Korean has a €50m (£44m) release clause in his contract, which could prove attractive to potential suitors. Napoli director Giuntoli has previously said: “It is only valid for foreign clubs and it’s accessible in a window in July, for just 15 days. Is it worth €50m? It’s variable, it depends on the revenues of the potential buyer. It’s all theoretical given that we are already thinking about changing these terms.”