"Manchester United is close, but Son Heung-min’s trophy is moving."

José Mourinho, the Fenerbahce manager, expressed his feelings about watching the UEFA Europa League final in an interview on the 28th (Korea time). He noted, "Both Manchester United and Tottenham are teams I support and love, so watching the final was quite difficult for me," adding, "However, seeing Son Heung-min holding the trophy and crying made me emotional as well."

On the 26th, Tottenham released a special scene centered around Son Heung-min on its official website. Tottenham stated, "Son Heung-min received a heartfelt welcome from great players like Perryman, Jennings, Chivers, and Roberts, and he led the team back to the top for the first time since they lifted a European trophy in 1984."

On the same day, Tottenham faced Brighton & Hove Albion in the final round of the Premier League 38th round at home but succumbed 1-4. As a result, they finished the season with a disappointing record of 11 wins, 5 draws, and 22 losses, totaling 38 points and a goal difference of -1. This is the lowest rank in the club's history since the Premier League's inception, finishing in 17th place, surpassing the previously worst record of 15th during the 1993-1994 season.

Also, 22 losses tie for the most losses in a single season since the Premier League began. Even when considering up to the 42-match format, it remains one of the highest loss counts in the club's history.

Nevertheless, the result of the day was a secondary issue for Tottenham fans. For a team that had just lifted the championship trophy for the first time in 17 years by defeating Manchester United in the UEFA Europa League final held on the 22nd, this day was merely a celebration. They shed the long-standing plight of being trophyless since the 2007-2008 League Cup, and captain Son Heung-min obtained a major trophy for the first time since his professional debut.

Immediately after the match against Brighton, the Tottenham squad shared the joy of victory with fans once again. In particular, Son Heung-min was the first to appear on the field holding the UEFA Europa League trophy, receiving the 'Guard of Honor' prepared by legendary figures of the club.

The key players who lifted the UEFA Cup during the 1983-1984 season personally welcomed their junior. Despite having already experienced trophy ceremonies and parades in London, Son Heung-min did not let go of the trophy that day. Weighing 15kg, he smiled brightly as he held the UEFA Europa League trophy until the end.

He then moved to the south stand to interact with the crowd and subsequently passed the trophy to his teammates. After that, Son Heung-min made a lap around the stadium, waving to fans one by one, and at the end, he shook hands with Tottenham legends, expressing his gratitude.

That day, the club posted photos and videos of Son Heung-min lifting the trophy together with past legends such as Perryman and Ardiles on its official channel, expressing that “Tottenham is filled with legends everywhere.” Additionally, for the scene where Son Heung-min sat alone in the stadium looking at the trophy, the caption read, “True Legend.”

Football London also focused on Son Heung-min’s leadership and dedication. It pointed out, “Although he was absent due to injury, Son Heung-min was still at the center. He led the team and spearheaded the 'Lap of Honor,' being the first to lift the 100th trophy,” highlighting his presence.

It also reported, "Son Heung-min endlessly waved his hands at fans while circling the pitch after the match. His handshake with the legends was a symbolic moment."

Since its founding in 1882, only three captains have lifted the UEFA European competition winner's trophy for Tottenham. Alan Mullery in 1972, Steve Perryman in 1984, and Son Heung-min in 2025 continue this legacy. Tottenham shared an image of these three individuals together, stating, "Son Heung-min is a member of the elite captain group that has lifted European trophies and is a clear Tottenham legend."

Mourinho is a manager with ties to both Manchester United and Tottenham. He has developed good relationships with several players at Tottenham, including Son Heung-min. On the other hand, this match featured his former protégé, Ruben Amorim, who has previously managed Manchester United, creating a matchup with a deep connection to Mourinho.

Mourinho stated, "Honestly, it was a difficult match to choose a team to support. I love Manchester United, and I have a very good relationship with Amorim. Nevertheless, it was not easy," adding, "because Son Heung-min was with Tottenham."

He continued, "In the end, the match concluded with Tottenham’s victory. And I saw Son Heung-min holding the championship cup and crying at the end. It must have been such a special moment for Tottenham fans."

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