Incheon United, following a triumphant return to K League 1 after securing promotion from the second division in 2025, is now bracing for a challenging season ahead. The team, which underwent significant roster changes with the departure of several long-serving players and the integration of new talent, aims to solidify its position in the top tier. Under the strategic guidance of manager Yoon Jong-hwan, Incheon will transition from being a dominant force in K League 2 to an underdog facing formidable opponents. The 2026 season will test their resilience, strategic depth, and ability to maintain consistency against a higher caliber of competition.
Incheon United Eyes K League 1 Stability After Promotion
In the lead-up to the 2026 K League 1 season, Incheon United is poised for a significant battle to secure its place among South Korea's elite football clubs. The team’s journey back to the top division was catalyzed by a stellar 2025 season in K League 2, where they demonstrated remarkable form with 23 wins, 9 draws, and only 7 losses, ultimately finishing first. This success followed a disappointing 2024 campaign that saw them relegated due to a combination of managerial challenges, subpar player performances, and internal club issues.
During the 2025 season, Incheon managed to retain several key experienced players, which proved crucial in their bid for promotion. They began the year with an impressive run, securing 11 victories, one draw, and one defeat in the initial round of matches, establishing a commanding lead at the top of the table. Despite facing injuries and fatigue as the season progressed, the team held strong, eventually finishing six points clear of their closest rivals, Suwon Bluewings.
The offseason witnessed substantial player movement for Incheon. Notable departures include long-serving vice-captain Kim Do-hyeok, who moved to Gimpo FC, and defender Harrison Delbridge, who rejoined Melbourne City in the A-League after his contract expired. Midfielder Shin Jin-ho, a regular starter last season, also left to become captain of K League 2 newcomers Yongin FC.
Among the key arrivals is midfielder Iker Undabarrena from Johor Darul Ta’zim, expected to inject much-needed creativity into the central midfield, an area where the team struggled since Elías Aguilar’s departure in 2023. Additionally, goalkeeper Kim Dong-heon returns after completing his military service, vying for the starting spot with Lee Tae-hee. Dong-heon's strong presence and aspirations for the national team are seen as critical for Incheon’s defensive stability, aiming for clean sheets and vital points in what will be a challenging season.
Manager Yoon Jong-hwan is also known for nurturing young talent. Choi Seung-gu, a 20-year-old full-back and central midfielder, is one such player expected to shine. Having made his senior debut last season and featured in the U20 FIFA World Cup, Choi is eager to test his skills against K League 1’s more competitive opponents.
The club's leadership underwent changes following the 2024 relegation, including a new manager and CEO, and the resignation of long-term chairman Jeon Dal-soo. This season, Incheon will shift from its attacking, fast-paced style that dominated K League 2, to a more cautious approach as underdogs. Early fixtures against teams like FC Seoul, Daejeon, Gwangju, and Pohang will serve as crucial indicators of their readiness. The first match of the season against FC Seoul is scheduled for Saturday, February 28th, at 2 PM, at Incheon's Sungui Arena Park.
The 2026 season presents a pivotal moment for Incheon United. The club’s ability to build on last season's success and re-establish itself in K League 1 will depend on its capacity to adapt to tougher competition, maintain defensive solidity, and maximize its squad budget. The hope is that the progress and improved playing style developed under Yoon Jong-hwan will continue, ensuring that Incheon remains a competitive force in South Korean football.