In a dramatic twist that could mark the end of an era at Tottenham Hotspur, Son Heung-min has signalled his intent to leave the club, and discussions with Major League Soccer’s Los Angeles FC are reportedly underway, as per sources at football.london. The 33-year-old forward, who has dazzled fans over a decade-long tenure with the Lilywhites, appears poised for a new challenge across the Atlantic.
Son, who has etched his name in the annals of Premier League history with 173 goals and 101 assists in an impressive 454 appearances, became the first Asian player to notch 100 goals in England’s top flight. His crowning achievement at Spurs came recently, captaining the side to a coveted European trophy with their Europa League victory a feat rarely accomplished at the North London club.
The South Korean talisman reportedly informed Spurs and newly appointed head coach Thomas Frank of his decision earlier in the summer, aiming to conclude his tenure on a high note after the Europa League triumph. Thomas Frank, the Danish tactician, had held discussions with senior players upon his arrival, with Son being the sole figure intent on departing.
The former Golden Boot winner appears eager for a move to Los Angeles, influenced partly by the presence of former teammate Hugo Lloris at LAFC and the city’s substantial Korean community. A transition stateside would mean competing in the same league as Lionel Messi, who now graces the ranks of Inter Miami, offering Son a prime opportunity to expand his influence in America.
Despite lucrative offers from Saudi Pro League clubs, the Spurs hierarchy is demonstrating an admirable level of support for Son’s preferred destination, reflecting his invaluable contributions to Tottenham’s cause over the past decade. Talks with LAFC have already taken place during Spurs’ 1-0 victory over Arsenal in Hong Kong, heralding a possible move to the MLS should agreements be reached.
Throughout the swirling speculation, Son has remained the consummate professional, showcasing his dedication in training—a fact not lost on both his teammates and Frank. As a testament to his enduring impact, after a cameo against Arsenal, Cristian Romero symbolically handed Son the captain’s armband, allowing him one final lift of the preseason Herbalgy Trophy.
Son’s imminent LA adventure means Sunday’s fixture against Newcastle in his native South Korea may serve as his Tottenham swan song unless negotiations prolong until their upcoming clash in Munich against Bayern. Upon arrival in Seoul, the squad was welcomed by 500 devoted Korean fans at Incheon International Airport, setting the stage for a poignant farewell at a sold-out Seoul World Cup Stadium.
Son leaves an indelible mark on Spurs, with his £22 million move from Bayer Leverkusen in 2015 proving a masterstroke. Reflecting on his journey, Son remarked after the Europa triumph in Spain, “Let’s say I’m a legend. Why not? Only today! 17 years nobody has done it, so today let’s say with amazing players probably a legend of the club. This is what I’ve always dreamed of. I am the happiest man in the world.”
As Son Heung-min prepares to conclude his storied Tottenham career, his prospective move to MLS promises to open an exciting new chapter, leaving behind a legacy that Spurs supporters will cherish forever.
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