Tottenham vice-captain James Maddison (28) left a significant message regarding 'captain' Son Heung-min's (33) future, local media analyzed.
The British media outlet Football Insider reported on the 10th (Korean time) that 'Maddison sent a heartfelt congratulatory message to Son Heung-min, giving hints about his future.'
Son Heung-min celebrated his birthday on the 8th. Maddison posted the phrase 'Happy birthday, brother. Love you. My captain' along with a photo of himself with Son Heung-min on his social media account. The photo captured a moment after the Europa League victory, showing Son Heung-min embracing Maddison's face in joy.
Football Insider interpreted that 'Maddison's message could be a positive signal that Son Heung-min may stay at Tottenham next season.'
It added, 'Son Heung-min has received consistent interest from teams in Saudi Arabia, and while he has rejected all offers so far, his position may change recently.'
It is reported that within Tottenham, there are views that this summer could be a point to monetize Son Heung-min. Given that Son Heung-min's contract is nearing its expiration (June 2026), the club is considering securing a transfer fee.
Vice-captain Maddison and Son Heung-min have maintained a close relationship.
Maddison has noted, 'He is a warm person to be around. He is a fantastic captain who leads by example, and he is someone I don’t want to disappoint.' The two players have shown their strong bond by performing the 'dart celebration' together during matches.
However, as signals of a split between Son Heung-min and Tottenham are detected, there could be situations where their chemistry is no longer seen. After former manager Ange Postecoglou left the team, Brentford's Thomas Frank took the reins at Tottenham, leading to cold assessments that even if Son Heung-min stays, he might become a bench member. Frank is reported to be seeking new attacking resources.
Son Heung-min plans to have a meeting with coach Frank and listen to an explanation about his role before making a final decision on whether to stay. British media outlet The Sun reported, 'Son Heung-min is expected to return to team training and preseason. He will have a direct conversation with coach Frank.'
Transfer market expert Fabrizio Romano also predicted, 'Son Heung-min's future is still undecided. The direction will be determined after he speaks with coach Frank.'
As significant attention is focused on Son Heung-min's future, the British media are attributing considerable meaning to Maddison's single message.
[Photo] Football Insider, Maddison and Son Heung-min ©Gettyimages (No reproduction or redistribution without permission)
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