An era concludes at Tottenham Hotspur as club captain Heung-min Son announces his departure. Having joined from Bayer Leverkusen in the summer of 2015, Son completed a remarkable ten seasons with Spurs, culminating in a Europa League title last season. During his tenure, he achieved an impressive 127 goals and 71 assists in the Premier League, notably forming one of the league`s most formidable attacking partnerships with Harry Kane.
As Tottenham embarks on a new chapter under Thomas Frank, Heung-min Son will not be part of their future plans. His anticipated next destination is Los Angeles FC, a club familiar with former Tottenham stars, having won the MLS Cup with Gareth Bale. Reports suggest LAFC is considering a $20 million deal for Son, a move that would significantly bolster their squad alongside Denis Bouanga as they pursue the Western Conference title.
In a press conference in Seoul, Son shared his decision:
I just want to share information that I have decided to leave this club this summer. Respectfully, the club is helping me with this decision. It was the most difficult decision I have made in my career. The main reason is I have achieved everything I can at Tottenham. I need a new environment for a fresh challenge. I came to North London as a kid. A boy came to London who couldn`t speak English. I leave this club as a man. Thanks to all the Spurs fans who have given me so much love. I spoke with only a few guys, ones I`ve spent a long time with. They`re disappointed but in a respectful way.
Reflecting on his decade-long tenure, here are some of Son`s most memorable moments with Tottenham:
5. Son`s 100th Premier League Goal
Son`s 100th Premier League goal showcased his signature flair. In 2023, after just 260 Premier League appearances, he curled an unstoppable shot from outside the box against Brighton, becoming the first Asian player to achieve this significant milestone in the league.
4. Smashing Southampton
In 2020, Son demonstrated his prolificacy by scoring four goals against Southampton at Saint Mary`s Stadium within just 30 minutes. This performance highlighted his exceptional partnership with Harry Kane, who assisted all four goals. Post-match, Son lauded Kane, saying, “I wouldn`t have scored four goals without this guy. He`s amazing. Four assists, he deserved the man of the match today.” Such displays of team spirit were a testament to his eventual role as captain.
3. Coast to Coast for the Puskas
Son`s incredible `coast-to-coast` goal against Burnley earned him the prestigious Puskas Award. Dribbling from his own defensive box, he single-handedly navigated through the opposition before finding the net. This iconic solo effort perfectly exemplified his explosive pace and dazzling dribbling skills.
2. Best Friends Off the Pitch, Lethal Together On It
The striking partnership between Son and Harry Kane was legendary. Their synergy resulted in a Premier League record 47 goal contributions to each other, a testament to their deep understanding and precise passing. This remarkable record, 11 goals clear of the next best duo (Didier Drogba and Frank Lampard`s 36), is likely to stand for years. Their collective efforts also fueled Tottenham`s memorable run to the Champions League final in 2019.
1. Europa League Glory
Son`s ultimate triumph with Tottenham was undoubtedly lifting the Europa League trophy. Although achieved during a challenging season where Spurs finished 17th in the Premier League, the lasting image remains Son, as club captain, raising European silverware in his tenth season. This victory perfectly encapsulates his contribution, leaving the club in a stronger position than when he first arrived.
