LOS ANGELES -- Son Heung-min was officially announced as LAFC’s newest player, in a buzzing press conference at BMO Stadium earlier this afternoon. 3525 ultras stood alongside club officials as Son was introduced to throngs of assembled media.
Joining on a permanent deal through 2027 - and with options extending into 2029 - the transfer fee is believed to be in excess of $26million. Holding up the number 7 jersey with his trademark smile, Son described his move as “a dream come true.” It was a sentiment echoed by all in attendance.
From city council members to media personalities and club officials, everyone behind and beside the podium was eager to highlight the significance of the move. Even Mayor Karen Bass took advantage of the good PR vibes, tipping her cap to the thousands of Korean voters while thanking “Sonny” for coming to Los Angeles.
The South Korean National Team captain joins LAFC after 10 years at Tottenham Hotspur where he scored 173 goals and registered 101 assists over 10 years that saw him become both a club and global icon. Despite a dip in form last season, he capped off his storied tenure in North London by lifting the Europa League trophy back in May.
But Son was quick to emphasize that he is “here to win” and, while he may go through the ups and downs familiar to all footballers, he promised to give everything and “make them [the fans] proud.”
While both the player and team officials were vague about when that debut may be, Son made it clear he is eager to step onto the field and put on a performance. With LAFC on the road for their next three games, supporters will have to wait for his home debut.
Whenever Son does step onto the pitch at BMO Stadium, it is sure to be what he best described as “very special.”
