After just seven matches in Major League Soccer, Son Heung-min has already scored six goals and delivered two assists, becoming the league’s new superstar while forcing Tottenham Hotspur to reconsider their decision to part ways with the Korean forward for only £20 million.
When Los Angeles FC announced the arrival of Son Heung-min in the summer of 2025, MLS fans knew they were about to witness something special. What they perhaps did not anticipate was how quickly and how emphatically the South Korean icon would leave his mark. In just seven appearances, Son has become the heartbeat of LAFC’s attack, delivering six goals and two assists, averaging more than one direct contribution to a goal per game. His immediate impact has been nothing short of sensational, and his performances are not only thrilling supporters in California but also reverberating across the global football landscape.
A Statement Performance Against Real Salt Lake
The clearest demonstration of Son’s influence came on September 22, when LAFC dismantled Real Salt Lake 4-1 in a commanding display. Son was everywhere—darting runs behind defenders, clever link-up play, and clinical finishing. By the time the final whistle blew, it was evident to everyone watching that MLS had gained not just another big-name player but one capable of shaping the identity of an entire league.
In a competition where Lionel Messi continues to command global attention with Inter Miami, Son has proven that stardom can be shared. Instead of being overshadowed by the Argentine legend, he has carved out his own spotlight. His combination of pace, intelligence, and composure makes him stand out even among world-class company.
Tottenham’s Costly Decision
Back in North London, emotions are less celebratory. Tottenham Hotspur’s choice to sell Son Heung-min for just £20 million now looks like one of the most questionable transfer calls of the decade. At 33, Son was still in excellent physical condition, had just helped Spurs capture the Europa League trophy, and remained one of the club’s most marketable and beloved figures.
Jamie Redknapp, the former Tottenham midfielder and now a respected pundit, voiced what many supporters are thinking: “Twenty million pounds for Son Heung-min? That’s a giveaway. He left Spurs with so much still to contribute. He had just been central to their Europa League success, and yet they let him go without a fight. The only ones regretting this decision are Tottenham themselves.”
The regret is amplified by Tottenham’s current struggles in the Premier League. While Son is dazzling in Los Angeles, Spurs are grappling with inconsistency in front of goal, lacking the creativity and composure he so often provided. His absence is being felt not only statistically but emotionally, as the squad lacks the talismanic figure who could inspire teammates and supporters alike.
Son Heung-min – A Perfect Fit in MLS
For MLS, Son Heung-min represents a dream signing. He arrived with star power, international acclaim, and a reputation for professionalism that resonates with fans worldwide. But unlike some marquee signings who come to America in the twilight of their careers simply to wind down, Son has come to compete. His high work rate, relentless pressing, and willingness to track back defensively have impressed coaches and silenced any doubts about his motivation.
Bob Bradley, LAFC’s manager, has been quick to emphasize the unique qualities Son brings: “Sonny is a player who makes everyone around him better. He doesn’t just score—he creates space, he draws defenders, he gives his teammates confidence. That’s what separates world-class players from the rest.”
The chemistry between Son and his new teammates has been instantaneous. Whether linking with Carlos Vela or combining with Cristian Olivera, Son’s ability to adapt to new systems and read the game has been evident. In many ways, he has elevated LAFC from a strong contender into a team that now looks capable of dominating the league.
The Business Impact
Beyond the pitch, Son’s arrival has sparked a commercial boom. LAFC merchandise sales have surged, ticket demand has spiked, and the club’s social media following has grown exponentially. For MLS as a whole, having a superstar from Asia is a strategic triumph, broadening the league’s appeal in markets where football viewership is exploding.
Son’s presence resonates particularly strongly in South Korea and across Asia, where fans see him as a trailblazer carrying the continent’s reputation onto yet another international stage. For years, Asian players in MLS were rare and often overlooked, but Son’s success has the potential to inspire a new wave of talent to consider the league as a serious destination.
Tottenham’s Missed Legacy Opportunity
For Tottenham, the sale of Son represents more than just the loss of a prolific attacker. It symbolizes a missed chance to cement a deeper legacy. Had they retained him, Son could have become a one-club legend in the mold of Francesco Totti at Roma or Steven Gerrard at Liverpool—icons who stayed and defined an era.
Instead, Spurs now watch from afar as their former captain thrives in another continent, adored by a fresh legion of fans. The sense of what might have been looms large.
Son’s Professionalism and Influence
One of the hallmarks of Son’s career has always been his professionalism. At LAFC, he has already been praised for his leadership in training sessions, his humility with staff, and his dedication to community outreach programs. He is not just a signing for the first team—he is an ambassador for the club and for the league.
Young players at LAFC have spoken about the inspiration of training alongside a player who spent nearly a decade competing at the highest level in the Premier League. His influence is particularly visible in how younger forwards approach movement and finishing.
Reframing the MLS Narrative
Major League Soccer has often been criticized as a “retirement league” for European stars past their prime. But with Son Heung-min’s performances, that narrative is being challenged. Here is a player who could still compete in Europe, yet chose MLS not as a step down, but as a new challenge. His success adds credibility to the league’s growing competitive stature and helps validate MLS as a genuine footballing destination.
Looking Ahead
If Son maintains his current trajectory, individual awards are almost certain. He will be a frontrunner for the MLS Golden Boot and could propel LAFC to another MLS Cup title. His consistency, fitness, and adaptability suggest he is far from slowing down.
Moreover, his continued success could create ripple effects internationally. South Korea, preparing for the 2026 World Cup, will benefit from having a captain who remains sharp and competitive in a demanding environment. Meanwhile, Tottenham fans will likely watch with envy as their former hero lifts silverware across the Atlantic.
Conclusion: A Tale of Two Futures
The story of Son Heung-min’s MLS adventure is only just beginning, but already it has created contrasting narratives. For LAFC and MLS, it is a dream realized—a superstar who delivers both on and off the field. For Tottenham, it is a lingering wound, a decision that appears more baffling with each goal Son scores in black and gold.
What remains constant, however, is Son’s ability to transcend borders, cultures, and leagues. Whether in Europe, Asia, or America, his smile, humility, and extraordinary talent continue to captivate audiences. Tottenham may regret their choice, but football fans everywhere are grateful for the chance to witness this next chapter in the remarkable career of Son Heung-min.