Son Heung-min Contemplates International Retirement After Asian Cup Turmoil

Son Heung-min, the captain of both South Korea and Tottenham Hotspur, recently revealed that he contemplated retiring from international football following a tumultuous experience at the Asian Cup. Despite facing challenges and doubts about his future, Son ultimately chose to persevere, driven by his commitment to the fans and a desire to honor his promise to represent his country.

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The turning point came after South Korea’s disappointing 2-0 semi-final defeat to Jordan, during which Son played with a dislocated finger sustained from a confrontation with teammate Lee Kang-in. This setback was compounded by the sudden departure of Jurgen Klinsmann, who had pledged to lead South Korea to their first Asian Cup victory in over six decades but was sacked after just a year in charge.

Reflecting on these events, Son expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to represent his country but admitted to wavering thoughts about his future in international football. Seeking counsel from former Manchester United star Park Ji-sung, Son deliberated over the decision, recognizing the significance of his role as a national team player and the responsibility he owed to the fans.

Despite the challenges and moments of doubt, Son reaffirmed his commitment to the national team, emphasizing his determination to overcome adversity and grow stronger from the experience. His resolve was evident in his performance during the recent World Cup qualifier against Thailand, where he scored his 45th goal for South Korea.

Looking ahead, Son remains focused on the upcoming matches and the journey towards World Cup qualification. As South Korea prepares for their next fixture against Thailand, Son’s dedication to the national team serves as a testament to his resilience and unwavering determination to succeed on the international stage.