South Korean soccer star Son Heung-min has announced he will leave Tottenham Hotspur before the start of the Premier League season, concluding a remarkable ten-year tenure with the North London club. The 33-year-old forward, a celebrated figure in South Korea, revealed his decision during a press conference in Seoul prior to a preseason friendly against Newcastle United. Reports suggest he may be moving to Major League Soccer (MLS) in the United States.
In his statement, Son expressed gratitude towards Spurs, stating, “Respectfully the club is helping me with this decision.” He described the move as “the most difficult decision I have made in my career,” emphasizing his desire for a new environment after a decade at the club. “I need a little bit of change – 10 years is a long time,” he noted. Reflecting on his journey, he added, “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.”
Since joining Tottenham from Bayer Leverkusen in 2015, Son has made an indelible mark, scoring 173 goals in 454 matches. His partnership with England legend Harry Kane has been particularly noteworthy, culminating in Son succeeding Kane as the club’s captain. During the 2021-22 Premier League season, he was a joint top scorer, netting 23 goals alongside Mohamed Salah of Liverpool.
Son’s achievements extend beyond club football. In May, he led Tottenham to victory in the Europa League, lifting the trophy after a win against Manchester United in the final. On the international stage, he has scored 51 goals in 134 appearances for the South Korean national team, solidifying his status as the country’s most prominent athlete.
New Tottenham head coach Thomas Frank praised Son’s contributions, describing him as “a true Spurs legend in every aspect, one of the greatest players to play in the Premier League.” The departure of such a key player marks a significant moment for the club as it prepares for the upcoming season.
As fans and analysts speculate on Son’s next steps, his legacy at Tottenham remains firmly established, reflecting a career that has inspired many both in South Korea and around the world.