From boy to man: Son's heartfelt goodbye to Spurs after years of love as fans react

Korean superstar Heung-min Son has announced that he has played his final game for Tottenham Hotspur, bringing to a close a remarkable ten-year journey with the English club.

The 33-year-old made his emotional farewell during a press conference held in Seoul, his home country, as Tottenham prepare for their preseason matches.

As reported by transfer expert, Fabrizio Romano, Son reflected on his transformation since joining Spurs in 2015 from Bayer Leverkusen as a mere 23-year-old “kid who couldn’t speak English,” to leaving the club as a mature and proud captain.

“I came to north London as a kid. A boy who couldn’t speak English,” Son said. “I leave this club as a grown man, a very proud man. Thanks to all the Spurs fans who have given me so much love.”

The South Korean also spoke honestly about the difficulty of his decision to leave. “It was the most difficult decision I have made in my career. Such amazing memories. I hope the goodbye is also good timing and this is the right time to make that decision. I hope everyone can accept and respect that,” he added.

Tottenham’s captain has been a club legend, making 454 appearances and scoring 173 goals, including a Premier League Golden Boot-winning season in 2021/22.

His dedication culminated in captaining Spurs to their first major trophy in 17 years, lifting the UEFA Europa League in 2024.

Fans and pundits have been quick to react to Son’s farewell announcement with heartfelt tributes:

“That moment when Son lifts the League Cup trophy tells you everything. Came as a kid doing stepovers, left as one of North London’s finest. Pound for pound, best Asian player we’ve seen in England.”

“What a servant he has been. At his peak, he could have walked into any club in the world. Great talent and personality.”

“Young man? Isn’t he 35?” (Referencing affectionate jokes about his age and longevity.)

“Thank God he was finally able to win something before my dear Arsenal. We still remain the kings of London. Up gunners.”

Son is expected to make what could be his final appearance for Tottenham in their upcoming preseason match against Newcastle United in Seoul, a fitting stage for the South Korean icon to say goodbye to his home fans.

New head coach Thomas Frank expressed his admiration according to the Premier League: “He is a true Spurs legend in every aspect, one of the greatest players to play in the Premier League. It is never easy to find the perfect timing, but I hope he can end on a high.”

With transfer interests from LAFC in Major League Soccer and big-spending clubs in the Saudi Pro League, the next chapter for Son is eagerly anticipated by fans worldwide.

Son’s farewell marks the end of an era for Tottenham but cements his legacy as one of the club’s all-time greats, a young boy who arrived with dreams and leaves as a celebrated man who inspired a generation.

• 10 years at the club (2015–2025)

• 454 appearances in all competitions

• 173 goals scored

• 101 assists provided

• Premier League Golden Boot winner (2021/22)

• UEFA Europa League winner and captain (2024)