Tottenham is taking a wait-and-see approach regarding Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham).
Tottenham won the UEFA Europa League final against Manchester United 1-0 on the 22nd (Korean time) at Estadio San Mamés in Bilbao, Spain.
Tottenham lifted a trophy for the first time in 17 years since the League Cup in 2008. With Son Heung-min, who joined Tottenham in 2015, they have finally resolved the 10-year title drought. Including Hamburg and Bayer Leverkusen, this is Son's first professional championship.
Once the victory was confirmed, Son Heung-min draped himself in the Korean flag and celebrated. As the captain, Son was the first to lift the trophy, celebrating with his Tottenham teammates. It was the most dazzling moment in Son Heung-min's football career.
After the match, Son Heung-min said, "I feel really great right now. Tottenham has not lifted a trophy for 17 years. It took a long time, and today is that day. I think I can now call myself a legend of this club. It’s just for today! I want to enjoy this moment," as he showed tears.
Tottenham activated a one-year contract extension option with Son Heung-min last January. Son will be a Tottenham player until 2026. Tottenham’s season ends on the 26th. With the Europa League title achieved, discussions about re-signing the legendary Son Heung-min should arise.
The English outlet "Football Inside" forecasted, "With the Europa League victory, Tottenham returns to the Champions League. Expectations are growing that Son Heung-min's experience will be a big help for Tottenham. Son will stay with Tottenham next season."
However, Tottenham is hesitant to offer Son Heung-min a long-term contract extension. While Son is indeed a legend who led the team to the Europa League title, there is hesitation about committing to him for a long time as he has passed his prime.
"Football Inside" reported, "Tottenham is strengthening its squad by bringing in young players and planning for a future without Son Heung-min. Tottenham is eyeing Eberechi Eze (27, Crystal Palace) as a potential replacement for Son. Questions are being raised about Son Heung-min's future at Tottenham."
It is true that Son Heung-min has struggled this season, but he has still contributed with 11 goals and 12 assists in 46 matches. However, as he is coming down from his prime, preparations are necessary.
"Football Inside" stated, "It is clear that Son Heung-min has not had his best season. He was unable to start in the Europa League final due to a lack of form. Manager Ange Postecoglou was concerned about starting Son, who had not played many matches. Son Heung-min is still the captain of Tottenham and can perform many roles. Ahead of next season's Champions League entry, Tottenham will certainly want to retain experienced Son Heung-min."
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