In an emotional press conference held in Seoul, South Korea, Tottenham Hotspur captain Son Heung-min announced his departure from the club after a decade of service. The 33-year-old forward, visibly moved and at times fighting back tears, described the decision as "the most difficult" of his career. He expressed his gratitude to the club and its fans, stating that he felt like he was leaving his home.
Son joined Tottenham in August 2015, arriving from Bayer Leverkusen. During his ten years with the club, he became a pivotal player, forming a formidable attacking partnership with Harry Kane. Following Kane's departure to Bayern Munich in 2023, Son was appointed captain. He went on to score 173 goals in 454 appearances for Spurs, placing him fifth on the club's all-time scoring list. He is also the highest non-English scorer in the club's history, with 101 assists to his name. In May, Son captained Tottenham to a Europa League title, their first major trophy since 2008.
In his announcement, Son explained that he needs a "new environment" to push himself and that the time was right for a change. "I came to north London as a kid, 23 years old, such a young age," Son said. "I leave this club as a grown man, a very proud man". He also confirmed that his priority is to prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America. "It could be my last World Cup, and I want to be in an environment where I will be able to pour my everything into it," he stated.
While Son remained tight-lipped about his next destination, he is heavily linked with a move to Los Angeles FC (LAFC) in Major League Soccer (MLS). Reports suggest that LAFC are in advanced talks with Tottenham and that Son has already agreed to personal terms. A move to LAFC would see Son reunite with former Spurs teammate Hugo Lloris. It is also believed that Son had attracted interest from clubs in Saudi Arabia.
Tottenham's new head coach, Thomas Frank, acknowledged Son's departure, calling him "a true Spurs legend in every aspect" and "one of the greatest players to play in the Premier League". Frank suggested that it was "the perfect timing" for Son to leave, "going out on a high".
The transfer fee for Son is estimated to be around $20 million (£15.1 million), although Tottenham reportedly value him closer to $27 million (£20.3 million). Should the deal go through at the higher rate, Son would become the most expensive incoming MLS transfer ever.
Son is expected to play and captain Tottenham in their pre-season friendly against Newcastle United in Seoul on Sunday, which could be his final appearance for the club. His departure marks the end of an era for Tottenham, as they lose a player who has contributed significantly to the club's success over the past decade.
