"It is time to accept this. Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham)'s expiration date is approaching."

Chris Waddle, a legend of Tottenham Hotspur, paid tribute to Son Heung-min, who has devoted a long time to the club, but advised that it is now time to prepare for separation. He also analyzed that "If Son Heung-min transfers to another league in Europe, he could extend his career for two more years."

'Spurs Web' reported on the 27th (Korea time) that "New Tottenham manager Thomas Frank has tolerated Son Heung-min's transfer." According to reports, Coach Frank does not oppose keeping Son Heung-min on the team, but attached a caveat. Son Heung-min must accept a limited role as a 'rotation resource' for the upcoming season.

In fact, Coach Frank recently mentioned key players he expects in the media, including Dominic Solanke, Rodrigo Bentancur, and James Maddison. Son Heung-min's name was not mentioned. This symbolizes Son Heung-min's weakening position, and among fans, the perception of 'the time for farewell is now' is spreading.

In this regard, Waddle asserted, "Son Heung-min is a truly great player and a respected figure throughout the football world. But every player has an expiration date."

In an interview with British 'OLBG', he stated, "Son Heung-min is finding it increasingly difficult to cope with the fast pace and strong physicality of the Premier League. If it were another European league, he could have played for two more years, but now it's time to leave."

He added, "Last season, Son Heung-min clearly had a tough time and struggled with the speed of the Premier League. Realistically, it is right for him to go abroad. He has had a wonderful time at Tottenham, and that contribution is undeniable by anyone."

He continued, "Once you enter your 30s, you have to accept reality. Son Heung-min needs to start a new challenge with a team where he can get more opportunities. If he transfers as a free agent to another league in Europe, such as France, Italy, Germany, or Spain, it would be a good thing for Son Heung-min. Tottenham has no reason to block his path."

Of course, there is no guarantee that Son Heung-min will leave immediately. 'Football Asian' reported earlier this month that "Son Heung-min prefers a transfer to Saudi Arabia after the 2026 World Cup rather than this summer, and it is highly likely he will remain at Tottenham until next season."

Additionally, according to the report, even if Tottenham transfers Son Heung-min, they reportedly want more than 50 million pounds (about 93.3 billion won). This amount reflects not only his skill but also the marketing and brand value Son Heung-min provides to the club.

Above all, there is a reason why a transfer is currently impossible. Son Heung-min is contractually obligated to join Tottenham's Asian tour, and the club is said to have already planned to include Son Heung-min in various commercial events leading up to the friendly match in Seoul this August.

As a result, it is expected that the decision regarding Son Heung-min's transfer will be difficult to make in the near future. Son Heung-min is not just a mere player resource but a symbol of Tottenham and a key card to the club's revenue.

Ultimately, the current situation illustrates Tottenham's reality, which is swaying between 'reason and emotion.' There are voices of realism indicating that separation from Son Heung-min is necessary for the club's new future, and voices of respect advocating for partnering with him for one last season, reflecting on the past decade together. At the end of this, what decision will Son Heung-min make?

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