Ji-sung Park’s name often emerges in discussions when football fans debate who the most underrated Premier League player of all time might be. His reputation as a hard-working, selfless player for Manchester United continues to shine long after his retirement. Many fans argue that his contributions never fully received the recognition they deserved, especially in comparison to other superstars of his era. Yet, while social media might suggest Park was underappreciated by the wider football community, at Old Trafford, the story was quite the opposite.
For seven years, Park was a crucial part of Manchester United’s squad, earning the trust and admiration of his manager, teammates, and fans alike. His versatility, energy, and willingness to give everything on the pitch made him a key figure during some of the club’s most successful seasons. Park’s consistency was remarkable, as he featured in over 40 matches during both the 2005–06 and 2008–09 seasons. Only once in his United career did he fail to make at least 20 appearances in a season, which speaks to his reliability and endurance.
Throughout his tenure at United, Park amassed an impressive collection of trophies. The only major domestic title that eluded him was the FA Cup, but even without it, his list of honors is remarkable. He lifted four Premier League titles, three League Cups, the prestigious UEFA Champions League trophy in 2008, and the FIFA Club World Cup. These accomplishments cemented his legacy as one of the most successful Asian players in European football history. By the time he left Old Trafford for Queens Park Rangers in 2012, Park had made over 200 appearances for the club, a testament to his importance during one of the most dominant eras in United’s history.
However, despite the club’s desire to keep him, Park felt it was time to move on. Reflecting on his decision in 2021 during an interview on the UTD Podcast, Park explained that a shift had occurred in his final season at the club. “I missed five games in a row without being injured during the last season (2011–12),” Park revealed. For a player who had always been integral to the team, this sudden drop in involvement was a clear signal. He had contributed consistently year after year, and to be sidelined for five consecutive games, without any physical issue holding him back, was difficult to accept. “If there were no injuries, I could have missed up to three games in a row,” he continued. “But as a player, five is really difficult. So, I believed it was time for me to leave the club.”
The decision to part ways was not easy for Park, especially given his close relationship with Sir Alex Ferguson and the club’s insistence that they wanted him to stay. Park had played a pivotal role in many of United’s triumphs, and Ferguson, known for his loyalty to his trusted players, understood the emotional weight of the decision. “I spoke with Sir Alex Ferguson, and the club really wanted me to stay,” Park recalled. But despite their best efforts, Park’s mind was made up. The realization that his playing time was diminishing without explanation made it clear that the time had come for a new chapter.
Leaving Old Trafford was an emotional moment for Park, who had spent seven years there and built a life in Manchester. “It was really difficult since this was the first club I had ever attended for seven years,” he said. The familiarity of the environment, the friendships he had made, and the sense of belonging made the decision even harder. “It seemed like home, so I was really at ease,” Park added. But as he approached the twilight of his career at 31, he knew that he needed to make one last move. This was likely the final contract of his career, and it was now or never.
In a touching gesture that highlights the bond between Park and Sir Alex, the legendary manager penned a letter to Park upon his departure. “Sir Alex Ferguson recognized my emotions. I still have the letter he wrote me. It has a lot of significance,” Park revealed. The letter, filled with warmth and appreciation, remains a cherished possession for the South Korean midfielder. Although their final conversation in person was brief, with Ferguson wishing him luck for the future, the letter carried deeper sentiments. It even mentioned how Ferguson’s grandson didn’t want Park to leave, a touching reminder of the personal connections Park had forged at the club.
Looking back, Park is grateful for the time he spent at Manchester United, and especially for the opportunity to play under Sir Alex Ferguson. “I am incredibly happy to have worked with him since we had a terrific relationship,” he said. His years at United were marked not just by trophies and success, but by the mutual respect and admiration between player and manager. Even as he moved on to the next stage of his career, Park carried with him the memories of a time when he was far from underappreciated at
Old Trafford.