Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham)'s comment is expanding unexpectedly in the UK, causing controversy. His remarks made during a press conference held for the Korean national team's call-up for the A match are starting to be interpreted as 'possible friction with the coach.'
British 'Tottenham Hotspur News' reported that on the 22nd (Korean time), "As Son Heung-min's interview comments became known, expectations emerged that Coach Postecoglou may take it negatively."
'Football Insider' also noted that Son Heung-min's public mention of his playing time during the A match period drew attention, adding that there seems to be a difference in perspective from the coach's explanation.
The issue arose from Son Heung-min's press conference held before the match against Oman on the 19th. He said, "My physical condition is really good right now. I am better prepared than ever. March had a tight schedule with Europa League and league matches, and there were many instances of coming on as a substitute. However, the schedule is tight, and I believe the coach made decisions to create a better situation. I am still maintaining good condition."
This comment can be interpreted as potentially contrasting with the explanation given by Coach Postecoglou when he excluded Son Heung-min from the starting lineup for 'fitness management purposes.'
In fact, Son Heung-min has played the full 90 minutes in a league match only once since February 9, and in the recent matches against Bournemouth and Fulham, he started from the bench. Although Coach Postecoglou explained this as 'for player protection,' some British media outlets have analyzed that Son Heung-min may no longer be a key part of the coach's plans. This is quite unusual, considering that Son Heung-min, who is the team’s leading scorer, has been consistently limited in playing opportunities.
Based on this, discussions about Son Heung-min's potential summer transfer have begun locally. Among some fans, extreme voices are emerging, saying, "It’s time to part ways with Son Heung-min," related to the team's poor performance.
In particular, after the loss to Fulham, posts demanding the termination of the contract with Son Heung-min have appeared in some fan communities. Currently, Son Heung-min has a contract with Tottenham until 2026, but a scenario is cautiously being raised that he could leave if the club embarks on a major overhaul during the summer transfer market. Reports have also emerged that some clubs in the Saudi Arabian league and within Europe are closely monitoring his situation.
When considering the full context of Son Heung-min's remarks, it is challenging to view it merely as an expression of dissatisfaction. During the interview, he noted, "It seems that the coach made that choice to make a good decision," showing some level of understanding and respect regarding his playing time. Therefore, there are views that British media are excessively interpreting his comments as criticism of the coach. Coach Postecoglou has not yet revealed a direct stance on this matter.
Son Heung-min has participated in 40 matches this season, including league and cup competitions, recording 11 goals and 10 assists, making him the only player on the team to achieve double digits in both goals and assists. He still plays a crucial role tactically in the Chonbang and is a central figure in terms of leadership. However, there are interpretations suggesting that his role is gradually being reduced due to the club’s rebuilding direction.
Ultimately, Son Heung-min's interview was an expression of confidence in his current condition being good. However, as this comment was distorted through local British media, a 'conflict' framing has unnecessarily formed.
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