Son Heung-min has officially left Tottenham Hotspur after 10 amazing years, and he’s moving to the United States. But in a surprising confession, Son said LAFC was not his first choice.
The South Korean football star, now 33 years old, signed a record deal with LAFC. The American club paid close to £20 million to bring him in, making it the most expensive signing in MLS history.
Son had many options from around the world this summer. Teams from Europe and Asia were also interested. But one phone call made the difference.
That call came from LAFC general manager, John Thorrington. He contacted Son right after the European season ended.
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“They’ve been absolutely working so hard to get me here to join LAFC,” Son said in his first interview after the transfer. “If I’m honest, it was not my first choice, but John changed my heart. He really convinced me.”
Son admitted he was unsure about coming to the MLS at first. He thought maybe he should stay in Europe. But the energy and vision from LAFC’s team made him feel welcome and excited.
“I’m so happy to see all the Korean fans,” Son added. “I was at the game and I saw you supporting like crazy. I wanted to run onto the pitch and show my performance.”
Son is not the only former Tottenham player at LAFC. His old teammate, Hugo Lloris, is already at the club. That familiarity may help Son settle into his new life in California.
“I’m here to win,” Son declared. “I will perform. I’ll definitely show you something exciting… are we calling it football or soccer? Either way, I will show you exciting football, and we will have success.”
During his time at Tottenham, Son scored 173 goals. He became one of the club’s all-time greats. He helped Spurs reach the Champions League final in 2019 and led them to a Europa League victory this May.
He is also the only Asian player in history to win the Premier League Golden Boot. Son’s impact has been global, and now he brings that star power to the MLS.
LAFC’s management is thrilled. Co-president and general manager John Thorrington said, “Sonny is a global icon. He’s one of the most dynamic and accomplished players in world football.”
He continued, “His ambition, ability, and character align perfectly with our values at LAFC. We are proud he chose Los Angeles for the next chapter of his career.”
“Sonny is a proven winner and a world-class individual. We are confident he will elevate our club and inspire our community – both on and off the pitch.”
Son’s final game for Tottenham was an emotional one. Fans gave him a guard of honour. He walked off the pitch with tears in his eyes. On the bench, he cried, knowing the chapter had ended.
“I felt like I gave it all,” he said. “But I needed a new challenge. I chose LAFC. I’m old, but I still have good physicality and I still have good quality.”
He may be 33, but Son believes he has more to give. He sees LAFC as a place where he can still shine.
Fans in Los Angeles are already welcoming him with open arms. Korean fans in California have turned out in large numbers to show support.
Son said he feels the love and plans to give it back by playing his best. “I will do everything to win. I want to make LAFC fans proud,” he promised.
The MLS is becoming a more attractive destination for top players. And Son’s arrival could inspire even more global stars to consider the league.
His story also shows the power of connection. One phone call, one conversation, changed everything for him.
Son’s move marks a new chapter for him, for LAFC, and for American soccer.
Now, all eyes will be on California to see how “Sonny” shines in black and gold.
