Kim Ji-soo (footballer)

Kim Ji-soo (Korean: 김지수; born 24 December 2004) is a South Korean professional footballer who plays as a centre-back for Premier League club Brentford.

Club career

Seongnam FC

Kim joined the youth academy of Seongnam FC and worked his way up their youth categories. On 7 February 2022, he signed his first semi-professional contract with the club ahead of the 2022 K League 1 season. In doing so, he became the club's first ever semi-pro player, as well as their youngest registered player in the league that season. On 18 October 2022, he was registered as a fully professional player. He made 19 appearances in his debut season with Seongnam, earning interest from clubs abroad.

Brentford

On 26 June 2023, Kim joined Premier League club Brentford for an undisclosed fee, signing a four-year contract with the club, with an option for an additional year, and being assigned to the B team. During a season at the B team, he was on the list of senior squad in eight Premier League matches, but did not make his senior debut.

On 7 June 2024, Kim was officially promoted to the senior team, becoming the first-ever Korean centre-back to be affiliated to a Premier League club.

International career

Kim is a youth international of South Korea, and played in the 2023 AFC U-20 Asian Cup and 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup. He became one of the most notable players in the latter competition after helping his team reach the semi-finals.

In August 2023, Kim received his first call-up to the South Korea senior national team by head coach Jürgen Klinsmann, for two friendly matches against Wales and Saudi Arabia.

Style of play

Kim is a centre-back who has power, height and quick feet. He is able to score, and can play with both feet. He has been frequently compared to Kim Min-jae in his country due to his playing style.

Career statistics

As of match played 8 April 2023

Notes

References

External links

• Kim Ji-soo at Soccerway