Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham Hotspur) is at the center of attention regarding his participation ahead of the UEFA Europa League final. With the fateful stage set to be held in Bilbao, Spain, local media reports are divided over whether he will start or come off the bench.
Tottenham will face Manchester United in the 2024-2025 UEFA Europa League final at San Mames in Spain on the 22nd (Korean time).
Tottenham and Manchester United have had disappointing performances in the Premier League this season. Therefore, they aim to turn the season around with one trophy on the European stage.
Son Heung-min missed a long stretch due to a foot injury last month. He has been absent for seven consecutive matches since the first leg of the quarterfinals against Eintracht Frankfurt, and subsequently returned as a substitute against Crystal Palace, playing for about 32 minutes. He then started against Aston Villa and navigated the pitch for 74 minutes to regain his form.
Recovery is evident, but there is still cautious speculation regarding Son Heung-min’s starting participation.
BBC noted, "There is a possibility that Son Heung-min may not fully adapt to a high-intensity match like the final since it has not been long since his return."
It further stated, "The case of Harry Kane, who participated in the UEFA Champions League final after returning from injury in 2019, comes to mind, and the most reasonable scenario would be a substitution."
UEFA also took a conservative stance. In the predicted lineup for the final released on its official website, it placed Richarlison, Dominic Solanke, and Brennan Johnson in the attacking lineup instead of Son Heung-min. UEFA evaluated, "Son Heung-min is recovering from injury, and it is too early for him to start."
On the other hand, Son Heung-min declared himself "ready." Right after the match against Aston Villa, he said in an interview with the club channel SpursPlay, "I feel good and my leg has recovered. I was happy to be able to play on the pitch with my teammates after a long time," adding, "Nothing is over yet. I can definitely make it happen on Wednesday."
Tottenham Ange Postecoglou is optimistic. He stated, "Son Heung-min can participate in the final. He started in the Villa match and is gradually regaining his rhythm," noting, "He is ready." While he did not guarantee participation, the trust in Son Heung-min remains strong.
This final is not just a championship challenge for Son Heung-min. Having never lifted a major club tournament trophy in his professional career, this stage could be his "last dance." For the captain, who has devoted nearly a decade to Tottenham, this UEFA Europa League final is an opportunity to highlight his honor and career.
Now, the only remaining question is how Son Heung-min will contribute to the team on this final stage. Whether he starts or comes in during the second half, Son Heung-min remains central to Tottenham and has the ability to change crucial moments.
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