Vice-captain James Madison (29) expressed overflowing love and boundless respect for captain Son Heung-min (33, both Tottenham).
Madison could not participate in the UEFA Europa League final against Manchester United (Man U) held on the 22nd (Korean time) at Estadio San Mamés in Bilbao, Spain, due to a knee injury.
However, after Tottenham won the championship by defeating Man U 1-0, Madison was seen crying while hugging Son Heung-min inside the stadium. At that moment, Madison was seen telling Son Heung-min something earnestly, and Son Heung-min was emotionally shedding tears.
On the 27th (Korean time), Madison revealed through British Sky Sports the details of what he told Son Heung-min at the charity golf tournament 'Madison Invitational.'
Madison reflected on the situation, saying, "I couldn’t run because of my knee injury. So, that was the first time I saw him after the match," adding, "We embraced fiercely and started crying like children."
He continued, "I will never forget that moment. I wanted to tell Son Heung-min exactly what he meant to me. I wanted to express what he means to me," and noted, "He means everything to me because I've seen him train hard and dedicate himself to Tottenham every day."
Madison also said, "I was ridiculed for two years because I couldn't get a trophy. But he has been through that for 10 years," and added, "He is one of the great players in the Premier League, yet has faced that. So, I wanted to express how proud I am of him and what he means to me."
Madison also mentioned through Tottenham's website, "I told him how much I love and respect him, and what he means to me as a person. I told him to feel all of this to the fullest."
He emphasized, "Son Heung-min is one of the most wonderful people I have ever met. I really love him. I am really happy that he gets to hold up the trophy for the club he loves in Bilbao."
He added, "He has been with this team for 10 years, and it was truly precious to share that moment with him. This isn't just about what we do; it’s about consolidation as human beings."
Madison expressed his affection for Son Heung-min by saying, "He respects everyone, warmly greets my family whenever he sees them, and is kind to my children. He is truly a wonderful person, and I am really happy that he can have such moments."
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