“My team forever.”

That’s what Young-Pyo Lee said of Vancouver Whitecaps FC in 2014 after retiring from professional soccer the year prior. Turns out he was onto something, as it was announced today that the South Korean soccer legend is returning to Whitecaps FC as a club ambassador.

“I am very excited to be back with Whitecaps FC in a club ambassador role,” said Lee. “I enjoyed every moment that I spent playing with this club and I am grateful for the opportunity to continue to be a part of its history. I love this city and the fans of Whitecaps FC.”

As a club ambassador, Lee will make appearances at various Whitecaps FC events, including club executive, partner, community and promotional events. Lee will make his first appearance at Sunday’s season opener against Montreal Impact at BC Place ( limited tickets still available ) – he will also be signing autographs at the WFC2 season opener on Sunday, April 10 at UBC Thunderbird Stadium.

Lee joined Whitecaps FC in advance of the 2012 season, following a highly distinguished club and international career that included appearances for his country South Korea at three FIFA World Cup tournaments. The former Tottenham Hotspur fullback also spent time playing in Saudi Arabia, Germany, England, and the Netherlands.

Lee made an immediate impact with the ‘Caps and was named the club’s player of the year in his first season. In total, he started 63 of his 65 Major League Soccer appearances, recording one goal and 10 assists over that period.

The South Korean soccer legend played two full seasons in Vancouver before concluding his storied 14-year professional career in 2013 with Whitecaps FC.