Tottenham Hotspur captain Son Heung-min has confirmed he will leave the club this summer, ending a remarkable decade-long spell in North London. The South Korean forward made the announcement during a press briefing in Seoul alongside new manager Thomas Frank, who praised the departing captain as a “true Spurs legend.”
Son joined Tottenham from Bayer Leverkusen in 2015 and quickly became one of the most beloved figures at the club. Over ten years, he amassed 173 goals in 454 appearances and carved his name into Premier League history books. He captained Spurs to a historic Europa League triumph over Manchester United in May — their first trophy in 17 years.
“Leaving this club as a grown man is a very, very proud moment,” Son said emotionally. “I came to north London as a kid who didn’t speak English, and now I leave with memories that will last forever.” His final appearance could come on Sunday in Seoul, where Spurs will face Newcastle in a pre-season friendly.
MLS Move Looms: LAFC in Advanced Talks with Son
Son is currently in advanced negotiations with Major League Soccer side Los Angeles FC. Although he is under contract with Spurs until 2026, the 33-year-old forward believes now is the right time to seek new challenges outside of European football.
“I need a new environment to push myself. Ten years is a long time. I want to experience football in a different setting,” Son explained. Sources close to the club suggest Son could finalize his move before the UEFA Super Cup clash with Paris Saint-Germain on August 13.
New manager Thomas Frank, who replaced Ange Postecoglou in June, admitted Son’s potential exit leaves a leadership void but expressed admiration for the forward’s professionalism. “If that is the last game for Sonny, what a place to do it — here in front of his home fans. It could be a beautiful ending,” Frank said.
Legacy Etched in Premier League and Tottenham History
Son’s contributions to Tottenham and the Premier League cannot be overstated. He ranks 16th on the league’s all-time scorers list with 127 goals — level with Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink — and holds the Spurs record for Premier League assists (71). In total, he provided 101 assists in all competitions.
One of his most iconic achievements was winning the Premier League Golden Boot in the 2021-22 season, becoming the first Asian player to claim the honour. He shared the award with Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah, each netting 23 goals. A year later, he became the first Asian player to reach the 100-goal mark in the English top flight.
Son also formed one of the league’s most formidable attacking duos with Harry Kane. The pair combined for 47 goals — a Premier League record — with Son netting 24 of them. Between 2020 and 2022, their telepathic connection defined Spurs’ attacking play, even as silverware remained elusive.
From Champions League Finalist to Club Captain
Son’s journey at Spurs was filled with highs and heartbreaks. He featured in the 2019 Champions League final loss to Liverpool and took on captaincy duties following Hugo Lloris’s departure in 2023. Under his leadership, Tottenham finally ended a long trophy drought with the Europa League victory earlier this year.
“This title meant everything,” Son said. “After so many years of falling short, lifting a European trophy in the captain’s armband felt like I had achieved everything I possibly could at Tottenham.”
Beyond his individual accolades, Son ranks sixth in Tottenham’s all-time appearances list — trailing only legends like Steve Perryman, Pat Jennings, and Glenn Hoddle. His dedication to the club, on and off the pitch, has earned him admiration from teammates, fans, and football pundits globally.
Emotional Farewell in Seoul: A Captain’s Final Bow
Son’s farewell is set to be as poetic as his time at Tottenham. The forward will captain Spurs in a friendly against Newcastle in Seoul — his hometown — providing the perfect stage for a final appearance in Lilywhite colours. With a packed stadium of South Korean supporters expected, the atmosphere is anticipated to be electric.
For many fans, Son’s departure marks the end of an era. Yet, his legacy is cemented, not only by his records and trophies but by his character, humility, and tireless dedication to the club. “Spurs gave me everything,” Son said. “Now it’s time to write a new chapter, but I will forever carry this club in my heart.”
Tottenham Hotspur, now entering a new era under Frank, must prepare for life without their talisman — but they do so knowing they were blessed to witness the brilliance of one of the greatest Asian footballers in history.
