Jae-sung Lee, a central figure in Mainz, is set to showcase his talent in the FIFA World Cup 2026 while representing South Korea. Since the arrival of coach Urs Fischer in December 2025, Lee has been instrumental in guiding Mainz to success in the Bundesliga and European competitions.
Mainz’s Jae-sung Lee: A Key Player in the Bundesliga
Under Fischer’s direction, Mainz made significant strides, finishing 10th in the Bundesliga. The club also reached the quarter-finals of the UEFA Conference League, marking a historic achievement. Lee’s contributions were pivotal during this period.
Player Information
- Name: Jae-sung Lee
- Club: Mainz
- National Team: South Korea
- International Debut: March 27, 2015
- Caps: 105
- Goals: 15
Since Fischer’s appointment, Lee has consistently excelled in midfield. He made appearances in every league match he was available for during the 2025/26 season. Notably, he scored significant goals, including a critical header against Bayern Munich, which ended in a 2-2 draw. Lee also secured a last-minute goal to defeat Fiorentina in the UEFA Conference League.
World Cup Aspirations
Jae-sung Lee, at 33 years old, has earned over 100 caps for South Korea. He is one of the oldest players in the current squad, following Heung-min Son. Lee’s World Cup experience includes playing every minute of South Korea’s group stage games in 2018 and assisting the team in reaching the round of 16 in 2022.
His experience and scoring ability are vital as he prepares for the upcoming World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the USA. Lee contributed significantly during the qualifiers, scoring five of his 15 international goals, establishing himself as a key player for the Taegeuk Warriors.
Coaching Insights
Lee’s versatility allows him to thrive in various midfield roles. South Korea coach Myung-bo Hong values Lee’s skill, stating he can adapt to different positions effectively. Fischer, Mainz’s manager, praises Lee’s work ethic, noting his ability to compete in multiple matches weekly without concerns.
As Lee gears up for the World Cup, his performance in domestic and international play continues to draw attention. His journey with Mainz and the national team promises to be exciting as he aims for glory on the world stage.
