South Korean soccer star Son Heung-min has confirmed his decision to leave Tottenham Hotspur ahead of the upcoming Premier League season, concluding a remarkable ten-year tenure with the North London club. The announcement came during a press conference in Seoul, where Son addressed reporters before a preseason friendly against Newcastle United.
In his statement, the 33-year-old described the choice as “the most difficult decision I have made in my career.” He expressed gratitude for the support from the club, stating, “Respectfully, the club is helping me with this decision.” Son emphasized his need for change, saying, “I need a new environment to push myself. I need a little bit of change – 10 years is a long time.”
Remarkable Career at Tottenham
Son joined Tottenham from Germany’s Bayer Leverkusen in 2015 and quickly established himself as a key player. Over his decade at Spurs, he netted an impressive 173 goals in 454 matches. His partnership with Harry Kane became one of the most effective in the Premier League, culminating in him succeeding Kane as club captain.
During the 2021-22 season, Son was a joint top scorer in the Premier League, finishing the year with 23 goals alongside Mohamed Salah of Liverpool. His contributions extended to European competitions as well, where he lifted the Europa League trophy in May after Tottenham triumphed over Manchester United in the final.
As a national icon in South Korea, Son has made 134 appearances for the national team, scoring 51 goals and solidifying his status as the country’s most celebrated athlete. His departure marks the end of an era not only for Tottenham but also for his fans in South Korea.
Reactions and Future Prospects
New Spurs coach Thomas Frank praised Son’s impact at the club, stating, “He is a true Spurs legend in every aspect, one of the greatest players to play in the Premier League.” As speculation about his future circulates, reports suggest that a move to Major League Soccer in the United States could be on the horizon.
Son’s transition represents not only a personal milestone but also a significant shift in the dynamics of the Premier League, as one of its standout players embarks on a new chapter. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see where his next steps will take him in the world of football.
