HONG KONG, CHINA - JULY 31: Son Heung-Min of Tottenham Hotspur reacts prior to the pre-season friendly match between Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur at Kai Tak Stadium, Kai Tak Sports Park on July 31, 2025 in Hong Kong, China. (Photo by Yu Chun Christopher Wong/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images)
HONG KONG, CHINA - JULY 31: Son Heung-Min of Tottenham Hotspur reacts prior to the pre-season friendly match between Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur at Kai Tak Stadium, Kai Tak Sports Park on July 31, 2025 in Hong Kong, China. (Photo by Yu Chun Christopher Wong/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images)

 

Son Heung-min has confirmed he will leave Tottenham Hotspur this summer, bringing an end to a remarkable 10-year spell in North London. The 32-year-old forward made the announcement on Friday at a pre-match press conference held in Seoul ahead of Spurs’ friendly against Newcastle United as part of the 2025 Coupang Play Series.

While the Korean captain did not confirm his next destination, sources close to the player suggest a move to Major League Soccer side Los Angeles FC is imminent. The transfer would mark the beginning of a new chapter in Son’s illustrious career, one that he believes is key to preparing for what could be his final World Cup.

“I’ve decided to leave Tottenham this summer,” Son said. “But I’m not here to talk about which team I’m joining. There’s still a game to play tomorrow, and I want to focus on that. I’ll speak more about my future once everything is settled.”

Son described the decision to leave Spurs as one of the hardest he has ever made.

“It was one of the most difficult decisions of my career,” he admitted. “Spending 10 years at one club is something I’m incredibly proud of. I gave my all every single day — on and off the pitch — and I’ve done my best for the badge.”

Having recently lifted the UEFA Europa League trophy with Tottenham — the club’s first European title in decades — Son explained that achieving that milestone helped bring closure to his time in England.

“Winning the Europa League felt like I had accomplished everything I could at Spurs,” he said. “I started thinking more about experiencing football in a different environment. Thankfully, the club understood and respected my decision, and I’m grateful for that.”

While Son’s move is not yet official, strong links to LAFC suggest the Korean superstar is set to join the growing list of marquee names heading to the United States. For Son, the decision was driven by more than just club ambitions — it was a calculated step toward preparing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.

“In many ways, the World Cup was the most important factor,” he explained. “It might be my last World Cup, and I want to be in an environment where I can give everything. I also want to play in a place where I can be happy and enjoy football again.”

Son's comments strongly suggest that he views this summer’s move as a strategic and emotional reset — a chance to embrace a new footballing culture, prepare for one last shot at international glory, and rediscover joy on the pitch after a decade of Premier League intensity.

With Tottenham yet to make an official statement, and the LAFC deal still pending final confirmation, all eyes will be on Son’s final appearance in Spurs colours on Saturday against Newcastle — a fitting farewell in front of a home Korean crowd.

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