Son Heung-min's (33) position, who has been with Tottenham for 10 years, is at a significant crossroads under the new head coach Thomas Frank. While still a symbolic figure as a Tottenham legend, voices are being raised in England that a transition to a supporting role is inevitable.
Tottenham Hotspur News reported on the 13th (Korean time) that "Frank regards Son Heung-min and Cristian Romero as key figures while establishing a new system," adding, "In particular, Son Heung-min holds a special status within the team as the captain and is an important figure in maintaining continuity within Tottenham."
Clearly, Son Heung-min is no longer the main player. Born in 1992 and now 33 years old, Son cannot avoid a decline in match impact and physical condition compared to his prime years. In fact, last season, he managed only 7 goals in the league amid frequent muscle injuries and fatigue, marking the first time in his career that he failed to score double digits.
According to local reactions, Frank is reportedly inclined to keep Son Heung-min, but there is a high possibility that his playing time will be limited. Tottenham Hotspur News projected that "for Son Heung-min to stay, he needs to accept a changed status within the team, meaning a supporting role amid competition for a starting position."
Currently, Tottenham is signaling significant changes in the attacking lineup. With Mohammed Kudus joining, and Manor Solomon recovering from injury, along with returning loan players and promising young talents, up to 8 attacking resources are in the competition. Naturally, the likelihood of Son Heung-min playing as a full-time starter under Frank's regime is decreasing.
Nevertheless, the reason Frank is holding on to Son Heung-min is clear. It is expected that an experienced leader can play a bridging role for younger players under the new system. As the captain who lifted the Europa League trophy and a symbol of Tottenham, Son Heung-min carries significance beyond mere athletic ability.
However, external perceptions are more sobering. Multiple overseas clubs, including those in Saudi Arabia, the U.S., and Turkey, have already shown interest in Son Heung-min, and the reality that "a transfer should be pursued while a transfer fee can be obtained" is consistently being raised.
Son Heung-min extended his contract with the club for one year last January, which means he will remain under contract until the summer of 2026. However, there is an interpretation that this summer essentially represents his "last transfer opportunity," as it is the last transfer market before his free agency.
Currently, Son Heung-min has joined the Tottenham squad for the preseason schedule. It is expected that he will make the final decision regarding his future after personally meeting with coach Frank. Topics such as playing time, tactical position, and transfer possibilities are all expected to be discussed in that meeting.
London World reported that "Tottenham plans to keep Son Heung-min at least until January, and if he chooses to stay following discussions with the coach, his role may change somewhat."
It added, "Fans have a sense that a farewell with Son Heung-min is approaching, but there remains hope that he will prove his value in some way under Frank's regime."
Meanwhile, the atmosphere within Tottenham is leaning towards ensuring that Son Heung-min is not forced into a one-sided decision. Out of respect for the captain, who has dedicated 10 years to the team, they are expressing a stance to respect his own choice.
The relationship between Tottenham and Son Heung-min has always been maintained based on mutual trust. However, as the club undergoes restructuring and generational change, a time of choice is approaching regarding how Son Heung-min will conclude his remaining career.
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