Is it a display of inferiority complex again? The discussion about 'Son Heung-min's expulsion' from Tottenham has resumed. This time, it was stated outright that "the higher leagues are too fast for Son Heung-min."

British outlet 'FourFourTwo' reported on the 20th (Korean time) highlighting Ohara's assessment that "Son Heung-min is not at the Premier League level." Ohara stated, "He is a legend of Tottenham. However, as time passes, anyone will have to come down," and added, "Now that he has lost his speed, Son Heung-min can no longer show influence in the Premier League."

"During the Europa League final, Son Heung-min seemed tied down. The speed and sharpness of his first few steps seem to have vanished," he remarked, adding, "We no longer see the moments where he would push forward as soon as he touched the ball. That is the reality."

This season, Son Heung-min recorded 7 goals and 13 assists in the Premier League. On the surface, those numbers seem decent, but Ohara has continued to criticize Son Heung-min throughout the season, stating, "Numbers alone are not enough. Leadership is wavering, and influence is diminishing." At the start of the season, Ohara even mentioned, "Now the Son Heung-min we knew is over."

Now comparisons have been made. Ohara stated, "Just as Giggs did in the past, Son Heung-min must change his playing style. But whether that is possible is questionable." Giggs transformed from a winger to a midfielder and had a successful later career. The question remains whether the same transition is possible for Son Heung-min.

In fact, Tottenham is undergoing a period of upheaval. After lifting the Europa League trophy in the 2024-2025 season, head coach Ange Postecoglou was dismissed. The British outlet 'The Telegraph' exclusively reported, "Tottenham is facing a players' revolt. Just 16 days after winning the Europa League, the Australian coach Postecoglou was ruthlessly fired, triggering an outburst of anger among the Tottenham players."

The media reported, "Postecoglou's dismissal has angered many Tottenham players. Some players want to leave the team. According to sources, the next head coach will face significant challenges in managing the crumbling locker room," adding, "Son Heung-min has given the impression to some teammates and coaching staff that he might leave Tottenham this summer. Saudi Arabia has shown interest in him."

In fact, Son Heung-min's contract with Tottenham expires at the end of the upcoming 2025-2026 season. Instead of offering him a new contract, Tottenham has only triggered a one-year extension option. As a result, transfer rumors have continued to swirl. Having recently lifted the UEFA Europa League (UEL) trophy, he hinted that he wanted to leave Tottenham as a legend, so there are speculations about him embarking on a new challenge.

Moreover, Postecoglou's dismissal could also impact Son Heung-min's future. Reports suggest that both Son Heung-min and vice-captain Cristian Romero have expressed significant dissatisfaction regarding Postecoglou's situation. In fact, Romero has even requested that the continuation of his tenure is a prerequisite for him remaining at Tottenham.

Interest from Saudi Arabia is also heating up. Several clubs, including Al Nassr, Al Ahli, and Al Qadisiya, have extended love calls to Son Heung-min. This would be a massive contract worth €40 million (approximately 63.4 billion won) for the transfer fee and €30 million (approximately 47.5 billion won) for the salary. There are also indications that a contract worth up to 142.6 billion won over three years could come to fruition.

Nonetheless, Son Heung-min is being cautious. After the match against Kuwait, he remarked, "I think it's right to wait. I am also curious. Let's see what happens," keeping his comments to a minimum. Nothing is certain. However, as figures like Ohara continue to assert the call for his departure, the time for Son Heung-min to make a decision is approaching.

Not only from Saudi Arabia but also from his former mentor, Jose 'taxes' Mourinho, who is approaching Fenerbahce. Turkish media have reported claims that Mourinho will personally make an offer to Son Heung-min. Additionally, there are rumors of a return to his former team Bayer Leverkusen.

Having lifted the championship trophy, Son Heung-min must now make a choice. Will he remain a legend, or will he choose a new challenge?

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