As projections emerge that he may have to give up the captain's armband and his starting position, Saudi Arabia has rapidly risen as a potential next destination for Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham). With betting companies predicting transfer possibilities numerically, evaluations have emerged that his decision is imminent.
Tottenham Hotspur has entered a new phase ahead of the 2025-2026 season. They lifted the UEFA Europa League trophy but recorded disappointing results in the Premier League and ultimately parted ways with manager Ange Postecoglou. His successor is Thomas Frank (52), a tactician who has refined the team well at Brentford.
The issue is Son Heung-min's position. John Wenham, the host of the 'Lilywhite Rose' podcast, who is well-versed in internal club news, asserted, "Son Heung-min can no longer be a player who starts every match." He continued, "While he has rich experience, his skills have declined from their peak. With Matthias Tel fully signed and Mickey Moore quickly developing, if Cristian Romero stays, he should also hand over the captaincy."
In effect, discussions are taking place internally about the notion that 'even if Son Heung-min stays, he should start from the bench and hand over the captaincy.' This is not just a simple generational change but a replacement of symbols. Son Heung-min received absolute support from fans as the captain who led the team to victory after 17 years last season, but under Frank's regime, he may not be the top choice.
Reactions from Tottenham fans are also mixed. While some fans acknowledge Son Heung-min’s dedication, showing consistent diligence and spirit of sacrifice, a portion of the fanbase is accepting of either his transfer or reduction of role, stating that a bold transition is necessary for team reorganization.
Nevertheless, the club has granted Son Heung-min the choice. Football London reported earlier, "Tottenham respects Son Heung-min's decision on his future." Although the contract was extended for another year by exercising an extension option last winter, that does not necessarily mean 'remaining.'
Realistically, Son Heung-min is now at a crossroads. Will he stay but relinquish his role, or will he head towards a new stage to conclude his prime? Concrete destinations are also coming into view, specifically Saudi Arabia.
According to the UK 'Mirror' and 'Tottenham Hotspur News', Son Heung-min recently rejected an offer from MLS's LA FC and several Saudi clubs are still targeting him. Even UK betting company 'Sky Bet' has set the odds of Son Heung-min's next club being in the Saudi league at 4/9 (about 69.2%). This indicates it is the most plausible scenario.
The Saudi league is actively recruiting top-tier stars from the European stage, enhancing the league's status. Among these, Son Heung-min serves as an appealing target due to his symbolism and marketability as the top star in Asia.
Tottenham's position, Son Heung-min's dilemma…time for a decision
Since last season, Tottenham has maintained an 'open stance' towards selling Son Heung-min. Football Insider reported, "If the transfer fee is £25 million (about 46.5 billion won), Tottenham will accept the offer." This means the club respects Son Heung-min's desired decision as much as possible, but they are also prepared to let him go if reasonable prices and terms are met.
Son Heung-min is currently said to be obligated to participate in the preseason schedule against Newcastle on August 3 at the Seoul World Cup Stadium. However, the possibility of this match being effectively a farewell event is growing.
If Son Heung-min leaves, it would mean more than just a simple gap in position. He was not just a mere winger but a symbol of the philosophy and emotion of the club Tottenham. As one of the few Asian players to succeed on the English stage, his departure will inevitably be read as 'the end of an era.'
Conversely, for next-generation prospects like Mickey Moore and Matthias Tel, it also marks the beginning of new opportunities. The door to generational change is often opened by the farewell of a legend.
The choices in front of Son Heung-min right now are not simply matters of career paths. If he stays, there are many losses; if he leaves, a new adventure awaits. His decision is a variable that can change not only his personal career but also the future landscape of the team Tottenham.
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