Tottenham Hotspur has raised the anchor under the management of Thomas Frank, and in the new head coach's first official message, the names of captain Son Heung-min and key defender Romero were absent, casting doubt on the future of both veterans.
On the 19th (Korea time), Tottenham released an interview featuring Frank's thoughts on his appointment through the official website.
Recognized for his leadership that transformed Brentford from mid-table to a top-tier team in the Premier League, Coach Frank said, "This challenge is a very meaningful opportunity in my career," adding, "I will focus on building on the foundation left by Coach Postecoglou to develop the team."
Although Coach Frank listed players he expects to perform well, Son Heung-min and Romero were not mentioned in that list. He explained, "I have high expectations not only for players with skills and experience like Bentancur, Maddison, and Solanke but also for promising players like Udogie, Bellingham, and Odobert."
Football London analyzed, "The fact that Coach Frank emphasized the importance of experienced players while excluding Son Heung-min and Romero could imply that they have been excluded from Tottenham's medium- to long-term plans."
In particular, Son Heung-min's case has seen continuous transfer rumors. Turkey's Fenerbahçe is aggressively pursuing Son Heung-min under the direction of Coach José Mourinho, while Saudi Arabia's Al Ahli, Al Nassr, and Al Qadisiya are also keeping an eye on him.
Local transfer market expert Ben Jacobs reported, "The three Saudi clubs are ready to approach Son Heung-min with a transfer fee of €40 million (63.4 billion won) and an annual salary of €30 million (47.5 billion won)."
Son Heung-min's decline in physical strength and performance is also contributing to the transfer atmosphere.
Former Brentford manager Martin Allen said, "Son Heung-min was certainly a symbol of Tottenham, but it is true that his weight has decreased in recent seasons," and added, "Coach Frank will likely aim to build a younger squad and instill new motivation in the team."
Martin Allen also reacted as if to see Son Heung-min's departure as a foregone conclusion, stating, "Even if Son Heung-min leaves, his contributions will remain enduring."
The fan community Tottenham Hotspur News was blunt.
Tottenham Hotspur News evaluated, "Son Heung-min's transfer was already a foreseen step for many fans. It is now time for the next generation of players to step forward."
Currently, Son Heung-min has one year left on his contract with Tottenham, and the club faces a strategic decision, including whether to recover the transfer fee. Whether Son Heung-min can stand at the center under Coach Frank or quietly prepare for a departure remains uncertain.
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