Bae Junho’s star has risen enough in South Korea that he was tasked with holding an individual press conference before he flew back to England for his first full season at Stoke City.
The 20-year-old playmaker, who capped a marathon individual campaign with his first call up to the senior international squad – and then scoring on his debut, will join in pre-season training under Steven Schumacher at Clayton Wood tomorrow as reigning player of the year.
But, in a one-liner which encapsulated his ambition and determination, he told reporters: “It’s time to prove myself, not gain experience.”
When he had flown back into Seoul last month, he had told the same press pack that he was aiming to significantly increase his goal output in 2024/25, having scored two and set up five in 25 starts and 13 sub appearances last term.
He added now: “I think I said that confidently after returning from a good season but that goal has not changed even now. I will return after scoring 10 goals.
“People around me say that last season was successful, and I think so too, but I didn’t show everything I can show. I want to prepare thoroughly and show a better performance.
“I think I need to focus on getting closer to my teammates, adapting to new tactics, and blending in better with the team.”
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