Heung-Min Son, international superstar and favorite son of Tottenham Hotspur, recently made some shocking news. After ten wonderfully creative years, he’s leaving the club. The South Korean forward has made himself one of the absolutely all-time greats to ever wear a Spurs uniform. He is currently fourth on the club’s all-time record goalscorers’ list. His new destination should come as no surprise given the increasing interest from Major League Soccer, even after Saudi Arabian clubs revived interest in him. Son’s last competitive appearance for Spurs was the pulsating Europa League final against Manchester United. As for his coaching acumen, he guided the team to victory in Bilbao last season!
Son has been the beating heart of Tottenham over the past few years, and was arguably the biggest reason for his side’s accomplishments during 2021. Registering 173 goals and 101 assists in all competitions, he was clearly something special and remarkably consistent. He has an astounding output of 127 goals and 27 assists in 333 Premier League games. This accomplishment puts him squarely in the company of all-time great players in league history.
A Legacy at Spurs
Over the course of his decade-long tenure at Tottenham, Son established himself as a key player, forming a legendary partnership with Harry Kane. Together, they have linked up for 47 assists over 229 matches played together — a mark no other Premier League duo has ever surpassed. Their best performing season was 2020/21. Their creativity was complemented by their chemistry, as the two combined 14 times for an assist, proving just how in sync they were on the field.
Son’s contributions extend beyond mere statistics. Brentford manager Thomas Frank doesn’t exaggerate when he calls him “one of the best all-time Premier League wingers.” His extraordinary ability is what has brought him this great recognition. His knack for altering games and coming through in the clutch has made him a fan favorite and a locker-room legend.
“He has been here 10 years at Spurs, not just 10 years but 10 amazing years. He is a truly Spurs legend in every aspect. I actually think one of the best players who has ever played in the Premier League as a winger in my opinion.” – Thomas Frank
Son’s impact at Spurs transcends individual accolades. He has been a pivotal part of the team’s collective identity. His work rate, professionalism and leadership attributes have continued to rub off on younger players in the squad.
Future Prospects
As Son gets ready to depart Spurs, it seems pretty clear that there is still hope for a bright future of the North London club. Frank sounded optimistic about the young talents coming up through the ranks at Tottenham. Johnson-to-odobert, as he saw it Johnson for Spurs?
“I think we have some young promising players that hopefully can step up and take over from Sonny in the future.” – Thomas Frank
Frank highlighted Mathys Tel’s versatility, suggesting that Spurs have options to maintain their attacking prowess following Son’s exit.
With Son’s exit, the door is open for other players to be heroes. Frank was sure to stress this important point, highlighting the many positive outcomes that accompany these types of transitions.
“First and foremost, when a great player is leaving a team other players have a chance to shine.” – Thomas Frank
The Decision to Move On
In Son’s case, many of these fans never got the chance to say goodbye. They have been fortunate enough to see him develop into a club legend during the last decade. He released a statement thanking Spurs and defending his record there. Above all, he put into perspective his commitment to continue seeking opportunities in Major League Soccer.
“I have decided to leave the club this summer. Respectfully the club is helping me with this decision.” – Heung-Min Son
This decision is very much in keeping with Son’s aspirations to face new challenges and gain new experiences in his career. Even with the temptation of lucrative bids from Saudi Arabia, he appears to be intent on leaving a legacy in MLS.
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