Tottenham expressed interest in Yang Min-hyuk (19), who made his debut in an A match.
Tottenham reported on its official website on the 26th (Korea time) that 'Yang Min-hyuk made his debut and Son Heung-min provided an assist.'
They also posted photos of Son Heung-min and Yang Min-hyuk competing in the national team on official social media (SNS). Yang Min-hyuk's photo featured the caption, "Congratulations, Yang!" and Son Heung-min's photo included the phrase, "Assist recorded for the Korean national team."
In fact, Yang Min-hyuk made his A match debut on the 25th, coming on as a substitute in the 8th match of the B group of the 2026 FIFA North and Central America World Cup Asia Regional Qualifiers against Jordan at Suwon World Cup Stadium. Yang Min-hyuk experienced his first A match at the age of 18 years and 343 days.
Yang Min-hyuk, who was substituted for Lee Dong-kyung at halftime when the score was tied 1-1, tirelessly roamed the field throughout the second half and even made a cross. He did not record any attacking points or shots. However, Yang Min-hyuk highlighted his presence with two tackles and active competition.
Yang Min-hyuk confirmed his transfer from Gangwon FC to Tottenham in July last year. Having signed a contract until 2030, Yang Min-hyuk joined Tottenham as early as mid-December last year.
However, Yang Min-hyuk did not get to debut under coach Ange Postecoglou and ultimately left on loan to Queens Park Rangers (QPR) in the Championship (second division) on the 30th of last month. Yang Min-hyuk has played eight games for QPR and recorded one assist.
Yang Min-hyuk will compete for a spot in the first team next season. Johan Lange, Tottenham's technical director, mentioned Yang Min-hyuk by name, noting that "it's important to get regular playing opportunities in a good environment" and expressed hope that "they will return in the summer ready to compete in preseason."
Tottenham stated, "It was an unforgettable day for Yang Min-hyuk," adding, "He made his debut for the A national team while coming on as a substitute in South Korea's World Cup qualifier held on Tuesday," cheering for Yang Min-hyuk, who wore the number 17 jersey.
They added, "This young striker, who is only 18 years old this year, was substituted in the second half against Jordan in the 3rd match of the 2026 FIFA North and Central America World Cup Asia Regional Qualifiers held at Suwon World Cup Stadium, replacing Lee Dong-kyung."
Naturally, they included remarks about captain Son Heung-min. Tottenham emphasized, "Captain Son Heung-min, with 132 matches of A match experience, assisted South Korea's opening goal just five minutes into the game."
They also noted, "Lee Jae-sung finished off Son Heung-min's corner kick to score. However, Jordan equalized with a goal from Mahmoud Al-Mardi in the 30th minute of the first half, and the match ended in a 1-1 draw."
Meanwhile, Yang Min-hyuk expressed, "I'm happy about my debut, but I'm disappointed with the team's result. There's a mix of joy and disappointment. It was a chance to represent my country. Many fans came out. The atmosphere was incredibly good. I tried to enjoy the game as much as possible."
Yang Min-hyuk continued, "The coach instructed me to exploit the space behind the defense. The game didn't go easily as expected. I tried to fulfill my role as much as possible," and added, "After the game, the coach told me I did a good job. The seniors also said I just need to do better in the future."
Yang Min-hyuk thanked his teammate and senior Son Heung-min, saying, "Hyung (older brother) Heung-min has taken good care of me while living and playing at Tottenham. He made me feel comfortable. Thanks to my senior, I was able to play more freely on and off the field. I'm grateful."
Yang Min-hyuk remarked, "In the past, I felt uneasy not being able to meet Son Heung-min. But now, since I've been eating and living comfortably at Tottenham, I call him 'Hyung' naturally," laughing.
Yang Min-hyuk could be called up again for the away match against Iraq in June. Regarding this, he expressed, "I was selected for the last call-up but was disappointed not to play. This time, I gained match experience. I want to record points next time," and added, "When I return to the team, I think I need to adjust to the style and follow the coach's instructions."
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