Tottenham owes a huge debt to Son Heung-min.
The Tottenham fan community Tottenham Hotspur News mentioned on the 25th (Korean time) that "Tottenham is having a bleak season. Son Heung-min is the same. The slump is unfortunate. It's only a matter of time before his performance ends."
They also stated, "If Tottenham finds a suitable replacement, Son Heung-min could leave the team next summer."
GiveMeSports reported that "Tottenham is seriously considering selling Son Heung-min. If a decision is made, it will be the biggest decision."
They added, "Salaries for Son Heung-min, Richarlison, and Timo Werner are reaching 800 million won. If sold, it could save a huge amount of money."
Tottenham News reported on the 26th that "Tottenham could sign a striker for £45 million (85.1 billion won) and finalize Son Heung-min's departure. If they can find a suitable replacement, Son Heung-min could prepare for a transfer this summer."
Having played 26 matches in the Premier League, scoring 7 goals, Son Heung-min is being evaluated as failing to meet expectations this season. There is local attention to his performance, which is gradually declining.
Jamie O'Hara, a former Tottenham youth player and currently a commentator, continued his criticism of Son Heung-min. He stated, "Son Heung-min is no longer suited to be the captain of Tottenham," and added, "The lack of leadership stems from both himself and the coach. Instead of leading the team, he is disrupting harmony."
He also emphasized, "He was a fantastic player and gave many memories to Tottenham. However, at a time when the team needs to be united, he should step down from captaincy. A new leader is needed."
O'Hara noted that he has faced backlash from Korean fans after criticizing Son Heung-min. He said, "My social media account has been flooded with negative comments for 24 hours. However, my thoughts do not change," emphasizing again that "Son Heung-min was once the best in the world, but he is not anymore. He can no longer achieve anything. It is now time for him to leave the team."
Martin Allen, a former Brentford coach, also provided a similar assessment. He stated, "Son Heung-min is no longer maintaining his speed as he used to. The frequency of goal-scoring chances is also decreasing," adding that "it wouldn't be surprising if he were transferred. His ability is at a level that a Championship (2nd division) team would want to acquire."
Jermaine Defoe, a former Tottenham striker, also expressed a similar perspective. In an interview with Sports Mole, he stated, "It's natural for players to leave for new teams as they age. Tottenham is likely looking for a replacement for Son Heung-min."
GiveMeSports stated, "Tottenham is now entering a new era. They will need to make significant decisions for an offensive overhaul. Son Heung-min is no exception."
While various stories are emerging, Tottenham cannot give up on Son Heung-min. If they were to transfer him, it would return to a dark age.
OneFootball stated, "Even when there is a star like Harry Kane, Son Heung-min's jersey sales have been higher. He is also a key figure representing the main sponsor AIA. Son Heung-min can actively participate in targeting the Asian market," adding, "Therefore, considering the commercial appeal in the Asian market, Tottenham without Son Heung-min would be unstable. This is why they still support Son Heung-min. It's not surprising."
OneFootball's message is simple. Regardless of performance, the importance Son Heung-min holds is greater than that of just one player.
There is no player to replace Son Heung-min in Asia. Not just in Korea, but throughout Asia. Especially during offseason tours, the amount Tottenham earns from Korea is hard to relinquish. In that sense, Son Heung-min is an essential presence.
The economic aspect was also emphasized by Forbes. In October last year, Forbes noted, "Tottenham owes a huge debt to Son Heung-min."
Even without considering economic power, the talent of Son Heung-min significantly impacts Tottenham. OneFootball reported that "Ultimately, Tottenham finds it difficult without Son Heung-min. They should prepare a plan for the future to ensure the team does not shake when he leaves," adding, "While young players like Odobert and Mikey Moore are present, they are not yet replacements."
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