Introduction to Son Heung-Min’s Deal with LAFC
LOS ANGELES – The Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) announced the acquisition of South Korean national team captain Son Heung-Min.
Background on Son Heung-Min
What we know:
Son previously spent 10 years with Tottenham Hotspur in the English Premier League, where he scored 173 goals across all competitions, registered 101 assists, and became the first Asian player to win the Premier League Golden Boot in 2021–22.
Son also played for Hamburger SV from 2010-13, then fellow Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen from 2013-15. On the South Korean national team, Son scored 51 international goals and represented the country in the 2014, 2018 and 2022 FIFA World Cups and four AFC Asian Cups.
According to a statement from LAFC, Son appeared in three World Cups and is one of South Korea’s all-time leading scorers in over 130 appearances.
Reaction to the Signing
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – AUGUST 6: Son Hueng-Min of Los Angeles Football Club poses on the pitch after he was introduced during a news conference at BMO Stadium on August 6, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images)
What they’re saying:
“Sonny is a global icon and one of the most dynamic and accomplished players in world football,” LAFC Co-President and General Manager John Thorrington said in a statement. “His ambition, ability, and character align perfectly with our values at LAFC. We are proud that he has chosen Los Angeles for the next chapter of his extraordinary career. Sonny is a proven winner and a world-class individual, and we are confident he will elevate our club and inspire our community — both on and off the pitch.”
Details of the Deal
LAFC confirmed Wednesday that Son will be a designated player through 2027, with options for 2028 and 2029. He will be eligible to play when he receives his P-1 visa and International Transfer Certificate, according to the team.
“I’m incredibly proud to be joining LAFC, a club with big ambitions in one of the most iconic sports cities in the world,” Son said. “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 announced his plans to leave Tottenham on Saturday, one day before the team concluded its East Asian tour by facing Newcastle United in an exhibition in Seoul, South Korea.
“Before we start, I just want to share the information that I have decided to leave this club this summer,” Son said. “It was the most difficult decision I have made in my career.
Conclusion
The signing of Son Heung-Min by LAFC marks a significant moment for the club and Major League Soccer (MLS) as a whole. With his impressive background and achievements in European football, Son is expected to bring a new level of excitement and competition to the league. His decision to join LAFC underscores the growing appeal of MLS to top international talent, and fans can look forward to seeing him in action soon.
FAQs
The Source: Information for this story came from a statement issued by LAFC on August 6, 2025. City News Service contributed to this report.
Q: Who is Son Heung-Min?
A: Son Heung-Min is the South Korean national team captain who has recently signed with LAFC.
Q: What is Son Heung-Min’s football background?
A: Son previously played for Tottenham Hotspur in the English Premier League, Hamburger SV, and Bayer Leverkusen, and has represented South Korea in several international competitions.
Q: What are the terms of Son Heung-Min’s deal with LAFC?
A: Son will be a designated player through 2027, with options for 2028 and 2029, and will be eligible to play upon receiving his P-1 visa and International Transfer Certificate.
Q: Why did Son Heung-Min decide to join LAFC?
A: Son expressed his excitement for the new challenge in MLS and his desire to help LAFC win trophies and make a positive impact on the club and the city of Los Angeles.
