Baek Seung-ho Prioritizes World Cup Bid Despite Shoulder Injury
Birmingham City midfielder Baek Seung-ho, 29, is determined to compete in the 2026 FIFA World Cup despite a recurring shoulder injury. The South Korean international has opted for rehabilitation over surgery to remain available for both his club and national team commitments.
Injury and Treatment Decision
Baek Seung-ho was substituted in the 15th minute of Birmingham City’s match against West Bromwich Albion on February 11th due to shoulder pain. Birmingham Live reported that this is a recurrence of a shoulder dislocation suffered in November against Middlesbrough. Despite being diagnosed with a demand for surgery, Baek Seung-ho has chosen to pursue a rehabilitation program to avoid missing crucial matches.
Club and National Team Implications
Birmingham City manager Chris Davies stated that Baek Seung-ho will commence training after approximately three weeks of rehabilitation. Birmingham Live described the decision as a “sacrifice,” acknowledging its importance for both the club’s push for a Championship play-off spot and the player’s World Cup aspirations. As of February 10, 2026, Birmingham City is 11th in the EFL Championship, two points behind 6th-placed Derby County.
Baek Seung-ho has made 32 appearances for Birmingham City this season. His potential absence would be a significant setback for the team’s promotion hopes.
World Cup Ambitions
The 2026 World Cup represents a significant opportunity for Baek Seung-ho, who was a reserve player in the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. With injuries to other central midfielders, such as Park Yeon-woo, he is expected to play a key role for South Korea. Davies praised Baek Seung-ho’s dedication, stating he “doesn’t want to miss out on an key match in the domestic league and the potential opportunities for the national team.”
Risks and Recovery
While rehabilitation avoids immediate surgery, it carries the risk of further injury if Baek Seung-ho returns to play before fully recovering. Delaying surgery beyond the World Cup would likely result in a missed start to the next season. Despite these risks, Baek Seung-ho has chosen to prioritize playing in both the Championship play-offs and the World Cup.
Paik Seung-ho’s Career Overview
Born on March 17, 1997, Paik Seung-ho currently plays as a central midfielder for Birmingham City and the South Korea national team. His career includes stints with Barcelona B, Peralada, Girona, Darmstadt 98, and Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors. He has represented South Korea at various youth levels, including the U-20 and U-23 teams, and has earned 23 caps for the senior national team, scoring 3 goals as of October 10, 2025. He won a medal at the 2022 Asian Games and was a runner-up in the EAFF Championship in 2022.