Son Heung-min Ends Ten-Year Spurs Spell for New Challenge in MLS | OneFootball

Son Heung-min’s Farewell Marks the End of a Glorious Era at Spurs

Son’s Departure Signals New Chapter for Spurs

The heartbeat of Tottenham Hotspur for over a decade, Son Heung-min, has confirmed his decision to leave the club this summer. Speaking ahead of a pre-season friendly in his native South Korea, the 33-year-old captain shared the emotional news that his time in north London is coming to an end. Talks are already at an advanced stage with Los Angeles FC, according to GIVEMESPORT.

“I just want to share the information that I have decided to leave this club this summer,” said Son in an emotional press conference. “Respectfully, this club is helping me to make my decision. It was the most difficult decision I have made in my career. The main reason is I have achieved everything I can at Tottenham. I need a new environment for a fresh challenge.”

With one year remaining on his current deal, Spurs are reportedly happy to honour Son’s wishes. Chairman Daniel Levy and new manager Thomas Frank have both held discussions with the South Korea international, ensuring all parties are aligned ahead of the final negotiations.

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Emotional Farewell from a Club Icon

Son’s words hit like a thunderclap through Spurs’ global fanbase.

“I have been here for 10 years. It’s a beautiful club with beautiful fans. I have such amazing memories. I just felt like I need a new environment to push myself to get more out of me. I think I need a little bit of change. Ten years is a long time.”

He reflected on his arrival in north London at just 23, a young man with limited English, who blossomed into one of the most cherished figures in the club’s modern history.

“I came to north London as a kid. 23 years old, a very young age. A boy who couldn’t speak English. I leave this club as a man. Thank you to all the Spurs fans who have given me so much love. It felt like it was my home. It was one of the toughest decisions I ever made. I think it is the right time to leave. I hope that everyone understands that and respects that.”

LAFC Move Ticks All Boxes

While Saudi interest in 2024 had placed a €40m valuation on Son’s head, LAFC are not expected to match that figure. Yet the sense within Tottenham is that sentiment may trump business, especially for a player who has given everything to the badge.

GIVEMESPORT report that LAFC have sent a delegation to South Korea to finalise terms. The lure of Los Angeles is strengthened by its thriving South Korean community and the chance to settle in the US ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Son’s Legacy Will Echo Across Tottenham

Across 454 appearances, Son registered 173 goals and countless unforgettable moments. From electric sprints at Wembley to emotional celebrations at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, he has been more than just a player — he has been a symbol of loyalty, excellence and humility.

Spurs fans will not just remember his footballing feats. They will remember his smile, his grace, and his leadership. He bows out not only as captain, but as one of the club’s greatest ambassadors.

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This is a gut punch. Even though we’ve all known it might be coming, hearing Son say it — seeing those tears in his eyes — it feels real in the worst way. He’s been Mr Tottenham for so long. You just don’t picture our team without him leading the line or racing onto a Kane ball (yes, those memories still sting too).

But maybe that’s the problem. Maybe we’ve clung to the past too long, and Son knows it. He’s chasing a fresh challenge, and he’s earned that right. Still, the idea of him in MLS, smiling in LAFC black and gold instead of lilywhite, feels too soon.

Ten years. One trophy. That Europa League win felt special, but honestly, he deserved more. The club should’ve built better around him.

The worry now is not just how we replace his goals, but how we replace the man. The ambassador. The icon. Richarlison isn’t the answer, and if Daniel Levy doesn’t back Thomas Frank properly, this could be another difficult rebuild.

I’ll cry the day he plays his final match. He came as a boy, and he truly leaves as our captain, our man. Godspeed, Sonny.