Son Heung-min, the South Korean football icon, has officially joined Los Angeles FC (LAFC) after a decade-long career with Tottenham Hotspur. The move marks a new chapter for the 33-year-old, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest Asian players in history. LAFC formally introduced Son at BMO Stadium on Wednesday, where his image already adorns the entrance and video boards.
While the move to LAFC is generating considerable excitement, Son admitted that joining the MLS club was "not my first choice". He revealed that after the season ended, conversations with LAFC General Manager John Thorrington changed his mind. Thorrington convinced Son of the club's ambition to expand internationally and become the most successful club in North America.
"If I'm honest, it was not my first choice," Son stated. "But (from the) first call when I talked to John after the season finished, he just changed my mind. He changed my heart. He changed my brain. He showed me the destination where I should be. Right now, I'm here. I'm more than happy". He also laughingly mentioned that Hugo Lloris, his former teammate at Tottenham and current LAFC goalkeeper, aggressively pitched the idea of joining LAFC.
Son's arrival is a significant coup for LAFC, who reportedly paid a transfer fee upwards of $26.5 million, potentially making it the most expensive incoming transfer in MLS history. He will occupy a designated player and international roster spot. His contract with LAFC extends through 2027, with options for 2028 and June 2029.
Throughout his time with Tottenham, Son scored 173 goals and registered 101 assists across all competitions. He also made history as the first Asian player to win the Premier League Golden Boot in 2021–22. Son also captained Tottenham to a Europa League title. For South Korea, Son has scored 51 international goals and represented his country in the 2014, 2018, and 2022 FIFA World Cups.
LAFC is thrilled to welcome Son, with Co-President & General Manager John Thorrington describing him as a "global icon" and "one of the most dynamic and accomplished players in world football". Thorrington further added that Son's "ambition, ability, and character align perfectly with our values at LAFC".
Son joins a distinguished list of international stars who have joined LAFC, including Carlos Vela, Giorgio Chiellini, Olivier Giroud, Gareth Bale, and Hugo Lloris. He expressed his excitement about joining LAFC, stating, "I'm incredibly proud to be joining LAFC, a club with big ambitions in one of the most iconic sports cities in the world,". He added, "Los Angeles has such a rich history of champions, and I am here to help write the next chapter. I'm excited for this new challenge in MLS. I have come to L.A. to lift trophies and give everything for this club, this city, and its fans. I cannot wait to get started".
Son's decision to move to Los Angeles also places him strategically for the 2026 World Cup, which will be held across North America. As the captain of the South Korean national team, he has already affirmed his commitment to participate in his fourth World Cup.
