This morning, before Tottenham Hotspur's trip to South Korea to face Newcastle, South Korean international Son Heung-min suddenly stopped speaking at the pre-match press conference, then solemnly said: "I have decided to leave the team this summer. Thank you for Tottenham's respect." His words were sincere, and he admitted that leaving was a difficult decision, but he did not say where he was going. It is possible that this match will be his farewell dance at Tottenham.
Over the past decade, Son has made 454 appearances for Spurs, scoring 173 goals and providing 101 assists. He won the Premier League Golden Boot in 2021, becoming the first Asian to achieve this feat. In 2023, he captained the team to their first Europa League title during his time with Tottenham. Although his statistics dipped slightly last season, he still managed 11 goals and 12 assists, helping the team achieve their dream.
In terms of personal honors, Son has won the Asian Golden Ball nine times and the AFC Best Overseas Player award five times. His commercial influence extends throughout Asia, making him a mainstay of Tottenham's overseas trips to the East. Although he still has one year left on his contract, the 33-year-old Son knows that renewal is unlikely, so he is willing to leave early to recoup transfer funds for Tottenham and depart gracefully.
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According to American journalist Tom Bogert, MLS powerhouse Los Angeles FC will sign Son for approximately 25 million euros, with only details pending and the player's salary undisclosed.
Following Harry Kane's departure, Tottenham Hotspur have lost another iconic figure. Son's value far exceeds his transfer fee, and his departure symbolizes the end of an era. From a young player in Hamburg to captain of the North London team, he has weathered a decade of storms, writing a legend for Asian players in Europe. If he moves to Los Angeles, he will join Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez, together forging a new chapter of star power in North American football.