Swansea City winger Eom Jisung will miss two of the Swans’ September fixtures after being called up by South Korea for the Asian Games.
The 24-year-old, who recently featured at his first World Cup, has been selected as one of three overage players in South Korea’s under-23 squad for the tournament, which takes place in Japan.
Eom appeared as a substitute in South Korea’s World Cup win over the Czech Republic and their defeat to Mexico, continuing his rise on the international stage.
His call-up comes during a summer in which several Swansea City players have been involved in major international tournaments — a factor that could influence head coach Vítor Matos’ selection for the opening weeks of the season.
Swansea begin their campaign with a League Cup first-round tie against Birmingham City at the Swansea.com Stadium on 8 August, before travelling to the Bet365 Stadium to face Stoke City in their Championship opener a week later.
World Cup involvement for Burgess and Stamenic
Defender Cameron Burgess, who played every minute of Swansea’s Championship campaign last season, was a key figure for Australia at the World Cup. He featured in all three group-stage matches, impressing with his defensive organisation and aerial strength as the Socceroos drew with Japan and narrowly lost to Spain and Colombia.
His performances earned praise from Australian media, and he returns to Swansea having further cemented his place in the national squad.
Matos will be hoping Burgess is available and fully fit, with Swansea light on defensive depth. New signing Stephen Welsh and returning centre-back Filip Lissah are options should Burgess require additional recovery time before partnering with club captain Ben Cabango.
Midfielder Marko Stamenic also enjoyed a breakthrough tournament with New Zealand, starting twice and coming off the bench in their final group game. The 22-year-old was one of the All Whites’ standout performers, showcasing his composure in midfield and ability to progress the ball under pressure.
With Ethan Galbraith departing for Stoke City earlier this summer, Stamenic’s availability and physical presence in midfield will be crucial as Swansea look to make a strong start in Staffordshire.
Their involvement means Swansea have had three senior players competing at the World Cup — a rare milestone for the club and a reflection of the squad’s growing international profile.
Asian Games schedule
Eom will join up with the national squad on 9 September, with the Asian Games running from 15 September to 3 October.
He will be available for Swansea’s trip to Southampton on Tuesday, 8 September, but will miss:
- Burnley (H) – Saturday, 12 September
- Lincoln City (A) – Saturday, 19 September
The remainder of the tournament coincides with the international break, meaning Eom will return in time for Swansea’s home fixture against Norwich City on Saturday, 10 October.
Key player absence
Eom has scored six goals in 88 appearances for Swansea City since joining the club in 2024, becoming a regular part of the squad’s attacking options.
His absence will be felt during a busy early-season period, with Matos likely to turn to squad depth. New signing Moussa Yeo is expected to be given an opportunity to impress as Swansea navigate the two-game gap.
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