Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham) has had his return to the Premier League postponed indefinitely due to a complex foot injury. There are extreme claims locally that he may have already played his last match for Tottenham.

Son Heung-min has been sidelined since starting the first leg of the UEFA Europa League quarterfinal against Eintracht Frankfurt on the 11th (Korean time), missing the Premier League match against Wolverhampton Wanderers and the second leg against Frankfurt. In particular, his absence from the travel list for the second leg of the Europa League underscores that the injury is more than just a simple bruise.

Tottenham officially stated, "Son Heung-min is still feeling pain in his foot and is in recovery," but did not disclose specific details about the injury or potential return date. As the club refrains from releasing information, foreign media have raised various possibilities.

The UK 'Tottenham Hotspur News' reported on the 19th, "Son Heung-min may have already played his last match for Tottenham." The media analyzed, "His injury is not just a simple bruise but damage to a complex area, and it cannot be ruled out that this is connected to the summer transfer market."

It also added a forced interpretation that "the decision not to accompany the team on the trip to Germany could be interpreted as internal discord or strategic judgment."

Tottenham's manager Postecoglou noted on the 19th regarding Son Heung-min's condition, "Son Heung-min has been carrying a foot injury for some time. Initially, it seemed like he would improve, but his condition worsened over time. Rest is more important than any treatment for this injury," indicating the possibility of a long-term absence.

Postecoglou emphasized, "Son Heung-min will definitely miss the league match against Nottingham Forest. Now is the time to focus on building his body through rest." Indeed, Son Heung-min has been excluded from the squad for the last two matches and has not returned to team training.

Experts are also weighing the seriousness of the situation. Dr. Rajpal Brar, a sports physical therapist and rehabilitation expert, analyzed, "The foot is one of the most sensitive areas for a soccer player. Especially the prognosis is complicated for positions that involve repetitive changes in direction and impact," adding, "If Son Heung-min is currently unable to join team training, the likelihood of participating in the next match is low."

Currently, Tottenham is lingering in 16th place in the Premier League, and the possibility of climbing into the upper tier has virtually vanished. Accordingly, the club is reportedly adjusting its strategy to focus on the Europa League rather than forcing Son Heung-min back into league matches.

Son Heung-min's target for return is the first leg of the Europa League semifinals on May 2. Tottenham will clash with FK Bodo/Glimt from Norway in the semifinals, which is essentially their only chance for a title. Postecoglou also determined, "It is more reasonable to concentrate on recovery so that Son Heung-min can participate in European competitions."

Meanwhile, there are claims that this season could be Son Heung-min's last at Tottenham. Recently, the BBC reported, "Son Heung-min is no longer considered an 'indispensable presence' at Tottenham. His influence has clearly diminished," signaling that the club is considering a generational shift.

Son Heung-min has recorded a total of 11 goals and 12 assists while juggling both league and European competitions this season. Serving as the captain, he played a key role in the attacking tactics until the injury, but he has also become a target for criticism due to recent declines in performance and issues with physical exhaustion.

Tottenham is expected to undergo a comprehensive overhaul this summer, during which Son Heung-min's future will likely be a major variable. Especially with only one year left on his contract, his future choices could significantly influence both the Premier League and European soccer.

Son Heung-min is currently focusing on rehabilitation and coordinating a recovery schedule with the club, aiming for participation in the Europa League. His return, after dedicating himself to the team throughout the season, is expected to become a crucial key to Tottenham's fate in the Europa League.

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