Tottenham will make a brutal decision regarding Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham).
Tottenham announced the signing of Mohammed Kudus (25) on its official website on the 11th. Tottenham stated, "Kudus has arrived from West Ham. We are pleased to announce his signing. As a Ghanaian national team player, he has agreed to a long-term contract and is set to wear the number 20 jersey."
With Thomas Frank's appointment, Tottenham is signaling a full generational change. Kudus is expected to compete with Dejan Kulusevski for the right winger position next season. Even if Son Heung-min remains with Tottenham, he cannot be guaranteed a fixed starting spot. Son Heung-min will need to compete on the left side against Mathys Tel.
The Evening Standard noted on the 12th, "The inclusion of Mohammed Kudus is the first step towards Tottenham without Son Heung-min. The incoming Kudus is a new option for the right side. On the left, there is the French prospect Mathys Tel. Between these two, Son Heung-min's position is gradually becoming narrower."
Son Heung-min scored only 7 goals in the Premier League last season. This is the lowest figure since 2016, breaking his streak of nine consecutive seasons with double-digit goals. Son Heung-min's physical condition has declined, and his explosive speed is no longer present. He also started on the bench during the Europa League final. While he has a significant influence as a vocal leader in the team, he cannot be guaranteed starting appearances.
Son Heung-min still has a chance of transferring. Thomas Frank will determine his position through discussions with Son Heung-min. If Son Heung-min wishes to stay, he must endure the humiliation of being a bench candidate.
The Evening Standard stated, "Son Heung-min has one year left on his contract. It is now time for both the club and Son Heung-min to make choices. Saudi Arabia and U.S. Major League Soccer clubs are approaching Son Heung-min. LAFC is one of them. It is a time for Son Heung-min to consider a new challenge. A legend’s 'exit' must also be beautiful," emphasizing the likelihood of Son Heung-min's transfer.
If Son Heung-min has decided to leave Tottenham, now is the right time. Having achieved Europa League victory, he has ascended to the status of the club's eternal legend. Leaving now will secure Tottenham a substantial transfer fee.
Tottenham will maximize the use of Son Heung-min until the end. On August 3, Tottenham aims to attract attention by featuring Son Heung-min as a starter in the match in Seoul. Tickets for the match have already sold out completely.
The Evening Standard noted, "Son Heung-min's name still appears on Tottenham's preseason schedule. During Tottenham's tour in Seoul this August, Son Heung-min may wear the club jersey for the last time in front of Korean fans. Thomas Frank values Son Heung-min's experience and leadership highly. While his playing time may decrease, his presence within and outside the team remains strong," hinting at a potential farewell.
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