Son Heung-min has shed light on the reason behind his decision to leave Tottenham Hotspur after a decade in North London.
The Spurs captain is expected to play his final game for the club in a preseason friendly against Newcastle United, fittingly in his home country, South Korea.
Son Heung-min reveals why he’s leaving Tottenham
Speaking to reporters ahead of the match in Seoul, the 33-year-old shared the reason behind his decision.
“I’ve been here for 10 years,” Son began, as quoted by Tribuna. “It’s a beautiful club with beautiful fans. I’ve made so many amazing memories.”
He explained that he now feels the need for something new.
“I just felt like I need a new environment to push myself more. Ten years is a long time. I think I need a little bit of change.”
Son reflected on how far he’s come since joining Spurs in 2015.
“I arrived in north London as a 23-year-old boy who couldn’t speak English. I leave as a man. Spurs became my home.”
He admitted the decision wasn’t easy.
“This was one of the toughest choices I’ve ever made. But I believe it’s the right time. I hope everyone understands and respects that.”
According to Sky Sports, Son is eyeing a move to Major League Soccer, despite interest from Saudi Arabia. MLS side LAFC, long linked with him, are reportedly speeding up talks with Tottenham.
Son Heung-min’s legacy at Tottenham
The South Korean international is fourth on Spurs’ all-time top scorers list, trailing only Harry Kane, Jimmy Greaves, and Bobby Smith.
Across all competitions, he’s racked up 173 goals and 101 assists, including 127 goals and 27 assists in 333 Premier League appearances.
His final competitive game for Spurs? That unforgettable Europa League final win over Manchester United in Bilbao last season. Now, as one chapter closes, a new one awaits.