Korea Republic FIFA World Cup: Half Korean midfielder Castrop back on the national football team for the October friendlies
Korea Republic FIFA World Cup: Jens Castrop, a midfielder, has returned to the Korea Republic's men’s national football squad for two international friendlies set for October. On Monday, head coach Hong Myung-bo included the 22-year-old in his 26-man roster. The Taegeuk Warriors, currently ranked 23rd worldwide, will face sixth-ranked Brazil and 37th-ranked Paraguay, both fixtures taking place at Seoul World Cup Stadium.
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Castrop, who represents Borussia Monchengladbach in the Bundesliga, earned his first cap for Korea on Sept. 6, coming on as a substitute against the United States in New Jersey, before making his first start against Mexico three days later in Tennessee. He became the first mixed-heritage, foreign-born player ever to appear for the Korea Republic.
The young midfielder now looks set for his first game on Korean soil next month, especially with veteran defensive midfielder Park Yong-woo, who partnered with Castrop against Mexico, sidelined due to a knee injury. Castrop also netted his debut Bundesliga goal over the weekend while operating in an attacking role, and coach Hong mentioned he intends to make use of the player’s adaptability.
World Cup: Coach Hong praises Castrop versatility while lamenting Park Yongwoo injury setback
Son is scheduled to land in Korea early Tuesday after featuring in LAFC’s home fixture against Atlanta United. Elsewhere in the squad, defender Kim Ji-soo of 1. FC Kaiserslautern, who plays in Germany’s second division, has earned its first national team call-up since the Asian Cup in January 2024. The 20-year-old, on loan from Premier League club Brentford, will be one of 11 defenders selected by Hong.
When asked about covering for Park’s absence, Hong admitted that replacing his defensive intelligence would not be easy.
“He has been an integral member of the squad, and, unfortunately, he suffered such a severe setback. I hope he recovers swiftly. Injuries are always a risk as we prepare for the World Cup, and we must be ready to adapt when such situations arise,” Hong remarked.

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“His capacity to cover different roles is a major benefit for our side. I believe he can adjust to whatever position we assign him. While we’ll mainly consider him for midfield duties, we may also discuss deploying him in other areas,” said Hong.
The coach expressed regret over Park’s injury, which occurred while playing for Al Ain in the UAE last week.
FIFA World Cup: Captain Son Heung min set to join the national team in outstanding goal scoring form
Captain Son Heung-min will join the national team in red-hot form, having scored seven goals in his last four outings for Los Angeles Football Club.
“We can either try to fill his role with another individual, or we may need to adjust our tactical approach. Once our midfield group assembles in camp, we’ll have further discussions about their responsibilities and positions,” the coach explained.

“He has already proven himself by winning the scoring title in the most competitive league in the world. His goal-scoring ability is unquestionable. I’ve been following his performances closely, and he’s currently in tremendous condition. Having him in this shape is a massive advantage for us,” said Hong of the 2021–2022 Premier League Golden Boot winner.
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FAQs
Q1. Who is Jens Castrop and why is his call-up significant?
Jens Castrop is a 22-year-old midfielder for Borussia Mönchengladbach in the Bundesliga. His call-up is historic because he is the first mixed-heritage, foreign-born player to ever represent the Korea Republic’s men’s national football team.
Q2. Which teams will the Korea Republic face in the October 2025 friendlies?
The Korea Republic will play against Brazil, ranked 6th in the world, and Paraguay, ranked 37th, with both matches taking place at Seoul World Cup Stadium.
Q3. Why is Castrop expected to play an important role in these friendlies?
With veteran defensive midfielder Park Yong-woo sidelined by a knee ligament injury, Castrop is likely to take on more responsibility. His versatility allows him to play both defensive and attacking roles in midfield.
Q4. What is the current form of Captain Son Heung min?
Son Heung-min is in excellent form, scoring seven goals in his last four matches for Los Angeles Football Club. His hot streak is seen as a major boost for the national team.
Q5. Are there any notable new or returning players in the squad?
Yes, besides Castrop, defender Kim Ji-soo of 1. FC Kaiserslautern has earned its first national team call-up since the 2024 Asian Cup.
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