News Summary
Son Heung-min has completed his transfer from Tottenham Hotspur to Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC), concluding a decade-long career at Tottenham. The transfer fee is reported to be around $25 million, potentially setting a new record for Major League Soccer (MLS). In an emotional farewell, Son reflected on his journey and legacy at Tottenham, where he became a club legend. His move is set to enhance LAFC’s offensive capabilities as they aim for a deep playoff run, while also preparing for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Seoul – Son Heung-min is officially transferring from Tottenham Hotspur to Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC), marking the conclusion of a remarkable ten-year tenure with Tottenham where he cemented his status as a club legend. The reported transfer fee is approximately $25 million, potentially establishing a new all-time record for Major League Soccer (MLS). This transition signifies a notable moment for both the Premier League and MLS, with Son widely recognized as a global superstar.
In an emotional farewell held in Seoul, Son bid goodbye to Tottenham and reflected on his journey, stating that he arrived in London as a boy and is now leaving as a man. His final appearance for Tottenham was in a preseason friendly against Newcastle in Seoul, where he received a standing ovation after being substituted in the 64th minute.
During his decade with the club, Son played 454 matches and scored 173 goals, making him the fifth all-time leading goal scorer in Tottenham’s history. His impressive career included winning the Europa League title, which marked Tottenham’s first major trophy since 2008. Son was a pivotal figure in high-pressure matches, most notably during North London derbies and the 2019 Champions League Final.
LAFC is currently looking to enhance their roster following the departure of Olivier Giroud, and Son is anticipated to fill the offensive gap. His presence is expected to significantly bolster LAFC’s chances of a deep playoff run as the team competes in the Western Conference standings. Additionally, Son serves as the captain of the South Korean national team and ranks as the all-time leading scorer among active players in the national team.
Looking ahead, the 2026 FIFA World Cup is a crucial focus for Son, who aims to fine-tune his skills in MLS as he prepares for the tournament. He is celebrated as one of the best Asian soccer players in history and boasts substantial fame, reflected in high jersey sales and a strong following.
This transfer mirrors the trend of MLS attracting several European stars approaching the twilight of their careers, similar to past legends such as David Beckham and Zlatan Ibrahimovic. Forbes has also identified Son as the second top celebrity in their 2024 Power 40 Celebrities Korea list, just behind the K-pop group Blackpink.
While the move might present some as a farewell tour, it is more likely seen as a pivotal shift in Son’s career as he prepares for future challenges. His transition from Tottenham to LAFC not only signifies a new chapter for him personally but also reflects the growing stature and appeal of MLS on the global stage.
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