Son Heung-min (34, LAFC)'s team was attractive even among players. LAFC was chosen as the team MLS players most want to play for.
Sports Illustrated in the United States reported the results on the 30th of last month (Korea time), saying, "More than 500 players participated in a survey conducted by the MLS Players Association."
The survey included various questions such as "best player" and "most difficult goalkeeper to face," and among them LAFC received the most selections in the "team players most want to play for" category.
The outlet pointed to the presence of Son Heung-min and Hugo Lloris as the reason. It assessed that the addition of stars proven on the world stage raised both the team's competitiveness and symbolism.
Son Heung-min moved to LAFC in August last year after ending a 10-year partnership with Tottenham Hotspur one year before his contract expired. The transfer fee was $26 million, the highest in MLS history. That amount far exceeded the previous record set by Atlanta United's acquisition.
Expectations quickly translated into results. Son Heung-min led the attack with his speed, finishing ability and link-up play, leaving an overwhelming record of 12 goals and 4 assists in 13 matches. The record showed that he became the team's focal point, not just a star signing.
Individual accolades followed. Son Heung-min won MLS' goal of the year for a spectacular free kick he scored against FC Dallas. It was significant as the first time for an Asian player and the first in LAFC history.
Local evaluations were all positive. Sports Illustrated said, "Son Heung-min is a player who poses a constant threat to defenses with calm finishing and strong mentality," and added, "the experience he has accumulated on the highest stages will raise the level of not only LAFC but also U.S. soccer as a whole."
Fans agreed. In the 2025 MLS player of the year fan vote conducted by soccer statistics site Transfermarkt, Son Heung-min topped the poll with 49.32% of the vote. He rose to the top, overtaking Inter Miami's Lionel Messi.
A team players want to play for, the best player acknowledged by fans. Son Heung-min's arrival immediately elevated LAFC's standing, and MLS's attention is focused on him.
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