South Korean soccer star Son Heung-min has announced his departure from Tottenham Hotspur, concluding a decade-long tenure with the North London club. The announcement comes ahead of the Premier League season and follows reports suggesting a potential move to Major League Soccer in the United States.
During a press conference in Seoul, prior to a preseason friendly match against Newcastle United, Son shared his decision with the media. “Before we start the press conference, I wanted to say I have decided to leave the club this summer. Respectfully, the club is helping me with this decision,” he stated. He described this choice as “the most difficult decision I have made in my career,” emphasizing his need for a new environment. “I need a little bit of change – 10 years is a long time,” he added.
Reflecting on his journey, Son noted, “I came to North London as a kid, 23 years old, such a young age. I leave this club as a grown man, a very proud man.”
Son’s Impact at Tottenham
Since joining Spurs from Bayer Leverkusen in 2015, Son has established himself as a key player, scoring 173 goals in 454 matches. He formed a formidable partnership with England legend Harry Kane, ultimately succeeding him as club captain. During the 2021-22 season, Son was joint top scorer in the Premier League, alongside Mo Salah, with both players netting 23 goals.
Son’s achievements with Tottenham include lifting the Europa League trophy in May, when Spurs triumphed over Manchester United in the final. His contributions have made him a sporting icon in South Korea, where he has scored 51 goals in 134 matches for the national team, solidifying his status as the country’s most high-profile athlete.
New Spurs coach Thomas Frank praised Son’s legacy at the club during the press conference, calling him “a true Spurs legend in every aspect, one of the greatest players to play in the Premier League.”
As Son embarks on this new chapter in his career, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see where his journey takes him next. His departure marks the end of an influential era for both the player and the club, and the impact of his time at Tottenham will not be easily forgotten.
