Mansion Sports - Tottenham Hotspur captain Son Heung-min has officially announced that he will be leaving the club this summer, marking the end of a historic chapter in both his career and the club’s modern era. 

The South Korean superstar made the emotional revelation during a press conference in Seoul, South Korea, ahead of Spurs’ preseason fixture against Newcastle United. The event was also attended by newly appointed Tottenham head coach Thomas Frank.

During the press conference, Son described the decision as one of the most difficult of his professional life. Despite his deep connection to the club, he acknowledged that the time had come to seek a fresh challenge in a new environment.

Emotional Reasons Behind Son Heung-min’s Decision

“First and foremost, I would like to share that I have decided to leave the club this summer,” Son stated. “With full respect, the club has supported my decision. This is the hardest decision of my career.”

“The main reason is that I feel I have accomplished everything I could at Tottenham. I need a new environment to push myself to a higher level.”

Having spent a decade at the North London club, Son admitted that the desire for change stemmed from the longevity of his stay. “I have been here for ten years. It’s a beautiful club with incredible fans. I have so many unforgettable memories,” he said.

“But I feel the time has come to try something new. Ten years is a very long time.”

Also Read: “Son Heung-min on the Verge of Tottenham Exit as LAFC Express Interest”

Achievements and Final Moments in a Spurs Shirt

Throughout his tenure at Tottenham, Son amassed 173 goals and 101 assists across 454 official appearances in all competitions. 

He could be set to play his final match in a Spurs shirt against Newcastle United at the Seoul World Cup Stadium, in front of thousands of passionate home supporters.

“I arrived in North London as a 23-year-old boy,” Son reflected. “I couldn’t speak English at the time. Now I’m leaving this club as a grown man. That’s something I’m incredibly proud of.”

When asked about his next destination, Son remained noncommittal. “I don’t think I have the answer just yet,” he responded.

LAFC Emerges as Leading Candidate for Son’s Next Move

While Son has yet to confirm his next club, multiple reports have linked him with a potential move to Major League Soccer side Los Angeles FC (LAFC). 

The American club is reportedly in the market for a new marquee player following Olivier Giroud’s departure, and Son is viewed as a perfect complement to current Designated Player Denis Bouanga.

Speculation has further intensified due to the presence of Son’s former Spurs teammate, Hugo Lloris, who currently plays for LAFC. 

The club also has a history of recruiting former Tottenham stars, notably Gareth Bale, who played a pivotal role in securing LAFC’s 2022 MLS Cup triumph.

Commercial and On-Field Impact Make Son a Valuable Asset

In addition to his on-field capabilities, Son’s commercial appeal in the United States is a major factor behind LAFC’s interest. 

The U.S. is home to the largest Korean diaspora outside South Korea, with over 350,000 people of Korean descent residing in the greater Los Angeles area, according to data from the Pew Research Center.

On the pitch, Son is expected to surpass Bale’s impact during his time at LAFC and could quickly establish himself as the league’s second-most influential player—after Lionel Messi of Inter Miami CF. 

His dynamic style of play is seen as a natural fit for LAFC’s current tactical setup under Steve Cherundolo, as well as for any incoming head coach next season.

MLS Continues to Attract European Superstars

Should Son complete his move to LAFC, he would join a growing list of European stars making the transition to North America. 

Reports also suggest that Bayern Munich legend Thomas Müller is poised to join Vancouver Whitecaps FC in the near future.

Currently, LAFC sits sixth in the Western Conference standings with twelve regular-season matches remaining. 

The club is on course for the 2025 MLS Cup Playoffs, and Son’s arrival could provide the final push they need to contend for another championship title.