South Korean forward Son Heung-min declared he is “here to win” after joining Los Angeles FC for what is reported to be a record-breaking Major League Soccer (MLS) transfer fee, bringing an end to his decade-long tenure at Tottenham Hotspur.
Son was unveiled at LAFC’s BMO Stadium on Wednesday, where he was welcomed by Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass, city officials, and passionate support from the club’s fans, including chants and drums from the 3252 supporters’ group.
“What can I say? It’s a dream come true. LA, what a city,” said Son at his first press conference.
Although neither club disclosed the transfer fee, The Athletic reported that LAFC paid approximately $26.5 million for the 33-year-old, making it the most expensive signing in MLS history.
Son admitted that LAFC was not his first choice. However, the club’s co-president and general manager John Thorrington played a pivotal role in convincing him to make the move.
“He changed my mind, my heart, even my brain,” Son explained. “He showed me the destination I should be heading to, and now that I’m here, I’m so excited.”
Son watched from the stands as LAFC beat Tigres UANL 2–1 on Tuesday night. Speaking at his presentation the following day, he promised to bring entertaining football and a winning mentality to the club.
“I’m here to win. I will perform and definitely show you some exciting football. And we will have success,” he said.
LAFC’s BMO Stadium is situated just south of Koreatown, and the arrival of South Korea’s most celebrated footballer is expected to resonate with the city’s large Korean community.
Son joins a growing list of global stars to wear the black and gold, following in the footsteps of Gareth Bale, Hugo Lloris, Carlos Vela, Giorgio Chiellini, and Olivier Giroud – with Bale and Lloris having previously been teammates at Tottenham.
After joining Spurs from Bayer Leverkusen in 2015, Son made 454 appearances and scored 173 goals. He captained the side to their first piece of silverware in 17 years earlier this year, beating Manchester United 1–0 in the Europa League final.
Speaking about his departure from north London, Son admitted the decision to leave Tottenham was emotionally charged.
“I felt like I needed a new chapter, a new challenge – and I chose LAFC,” he said.
“You could say I’m old, but I still have good physicality, good legs, and good quality.”
Son also expressed his eagerness to mentor younger players at the club, in addition to contributing on the pitch.
“Obviously I’m here to perform, but I also want to give advice to young players to help them improve. I can’t wait – let’s do it together and win the trophy.”
It is not yet confirmed when Son will make his debut for LAFC, who currently sit sixth in the Western Conference and travel to face Chicago Fire on Saturday.
LAFC general manager John Thorrington hailed the signing as a landmark moment for the club.
“Sonny is a world-class talent, a global icon of football, and we’re thrilled he’s chosen to write the next chapter of his remarkable career with us,” he said.
Son, who has been capped 134 times for South Korea, bid an emotional farewell to Tottenham during a pre-season friendly against Newcastle United at the Seoul World Cup Stadium on 3 August.