An era concludes at Tottenham Hotspur as club captain Heung-min Son confirms his departure. Having arrived from Bayer Leverkusen in the summer of 2015, Son spent a decade with the club, culminating in a historic Europa League title win last season. During his tenure, he achieved an impressive tally of 127 goals and 71 assists in the Premier League, notably forming one of the league`s most formidable attacking partnerships alongside Harry Kane.
However, as Tottenham transitions into a new era under manager Thomas Frank, Son will not be part of it. His next destination is widely anticipated to be Los Angeles FC, a club familiar with Spurs legends, having previously secured an MLS Cup with Gareth Bale. Reports indicate that LAFC is considering a $20 million transfer for the star. Acquiring Son, who would join forces with Denis Bouanga, would be a significant move for LAFC as they vie for the Western Conference title.
“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 remarkable decade, let`s revisit some of Heung-min Son`s most iconic moments in a Tottenham jersey:
5. Son`s 100th Premier League Goal
Son has consistently delivered spectacular goals for Spurs, marking significant milestones with characteristic flair. His 100th Premier League goal was no exception. In 2023, he curled an unstoppable shot from outside the box against Brighton, leaving their goalkeeper no chance. This achievement made him the first Asian player to reach the century mark in the league, doing so in just 260 Premier League appearances at the time.
4. Smashing Southampton
This memorable performance dates back to 2020 when Son astonishingly scored four goals against Southampton at Saint Mary`s Stadium in just 30 minutes. This match perfectly showcased the telepathic partnership between Kane and Son, with all four goals being assisted by Kane. Following the game, Son was quick to credit his teammate, stating, “I wouldn`t have scored four goals without this guy. He`s amazing. Four assists, he deserved the man of the match today.” Such acknowledgements highlight the leadership qualities that eventually led him to captain the team.
3. Coast to Coast for the Puskas
While `coast-to-coast` plays are common in basketball, they are a rarity in soccer, yet Son defied expectations with this incredible solo effort. Starting deep within Spurs` own defensive box, Son embarked on a dazzling run, dribbling past the entire Burnley team before calmly slotting the ball into the net. This goal, a testament to his incredible pace and dribbling ability, also blurs the definition of an assist, as Jan Vertonghen received credit for a simple pass at the start of the play. This iconic strike deservedly earned Son the prestigious Puskas Award.
2. Best Friends Off the Pitch, Lethal Together On It
Revisiting the unparalleled partnership with Harry Kane, their bond extended beyond the pitch, creating a truly special dynamic during their time at the club. They hold the Premier League record for most goal contributions to each other, with an astounding 47. Their understanding was exceptional, always knowing each other`s positioning and delivering precise passes for goals. Their record stands 11 goals clear of the next best duo, Didier Drogba and Frank Lampard (36 goals), a testament to their unique synergy that is likely to endure for a long time. Their collective journey also included an incredible run to the Champions League final in 2019.
1. Europa League Glory
Undoubtedly, lifting the Europa League trophy stands as Heung-min Son`s crowning achievement with Tottenham. While it occurred during an unusual season where Spurs finished 17th in the Premier League, the lasting image will be that of Son, as club captain, raising a European trophy in his tenth and final season. This triumph perfectly encapsulates his immense contribution to the club, leaving it in a significantly stronger position than when he first arrived.
