2024 Season Preview: Can Incheon United make it three in a row? | OneFootball

Key Player

Gerso Fernandes

While Stefan Mugoša's return to the club captured the headlines off the field, it was Gerso's on-field performances that primarily contributed to the club's success in 2023. With ten goals and nine assists, he emerged as Incheon's most potent player in his debut season with the club. While his on-field chemistry with Hernandes was evident, he also displayed glimpses of a similar understanding with Mugoša. The potential development of this relationship will be intriguing this year, especially now that the Montenegrin is back to full fitness.

Young Player to Watch

Park Seungho

The Final Round of K League 2023 provided a glimpse into the future of Incheon United, with the boss Jo Sunghwan electing to give debuts to several U22 players. The likes of Choi Woojin and Kim Gunhee looked almost alarmingly adept for rookies, but Korea U22 international Park Seungho is the one who truly stood out. Featuring in all five of the club's Final Round games, scoring a superb volley against champions Ulsan Hyundai and even getting a good amount of game time (and a goal) in the Champions League, it shows that the Incheon hierarchy sees something in Park. He featured 15 times for the club last season, scoring twice. He'll look to cement a starting berth this season - and with Hernandes gone, he should have the opportunity.

Can Incheon return to Asia?

With the restructuring of AFC continental competitions, four slots are now available in the newly-named AFC Champions League Elite and the newly-established AFC Champions League 2. As an increasing number of clubs set their sights on securing these coveted positions, the competition for them intensifies with each passing year. Incheon, having already experienced a taste of continental football, are determined to maintain their presence in this arena. Whether it entails winning the FA Cup or securing a top-three finish in the league, participating in continental football remains the club's primary objective. Incheon narrowly missed out on qualification last year, with a fifth-place finish falling just short of securing an ACL2 spot. This year, the motivation will be there to go one better.

Reason to Watch

Already regarded as one of the better true football stadiums in the country, the club has extended the standing section this year, meaning the atmosphere is likely to be even louder. Additionally, the product on the pitch is improving year-on-year and for only 14,000 won (~$10), it's great value for neutrals. The beer is cheap, the football is fun and there's even a foreign fan section behind the home goal that is pretty accommodating.