South Korea's national team coach, Hong Myung-bo, has urged Son Heung-min to set aside his struggles at Tottenham Hotspur and focus on securing a place for his country in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Despite a difficult season with Spurs, the South Korean captain remains a crucial figure for his national team as they prepare for decisive qualifiers against Oman and Jordan later this month.
Son’s Club Struggles at Spurs
Son Heung-min’s season at Tottenham has been far from ideal. The 32-year-old forward has seen his playing time reduced and has managed only seven Premier League goals so far. With Spurs languishing in the bottom half of the table and enduring yet another trophy-less campaign, Son's frustrations have been evident.
On Sunday, he came off the bench at halftime and rescued a point for Tottenham by converting a late penalty in a 2-2 home draw against Bournemouth. However, these flashes of brilliance have been rare in a season marred by injuries and inconsistent form. Since the turn of the year, Son has completed 90 minutes in just five matches, raising concerns about his fitness and ability to deliver at the highest level.
South Korea’s World Cup Aspirations
While Son has struggled at the club level, his role in the national team remains as significant as ever. South Korea is currently unbeaten in the third round of the Asian qualifiers, having secured four wins and two draws. A victory against both Oman on March 20 and Jordan on March 25 will guarantee their 11th consecutive World Cup appearance.
Coach Hong Myung-bo has named Son in his squad and emphasized that his captain must detach himself from his club's struggles and focus on the task at hand. "The national team is a completely different setting," Hong stated, reassuring fans that Son's form with Spurs will not impact his performances for South Korea.
Son’s Role in the National Team
Despite his struggles this season, Son remains a talismanic figure for South Korea. His leadership and experience are invaluable, but Hong made it clear that there are no guarantees he will start against Oman and Jordan. "There are many discussions regarding his recent form, including his goal tally," Hong acknowledged. "However, we must not forget everything he has accomplished so far."
Hong stressed the importance of open communication with Son regarding his role in the upcoming matches. "If he joins us this time, we will communicate about his role and work together to find the best approach possible." This suggests that the coaching staff will assess Son’s fitness and readiness before determining his playing time.
A Full-Strength Squad for Crucial Qualifiers
South Korea is approaching these qualifiers with a strong squad featuring several European-based stars. Bayern Munich’s defensive rock Kim Min-jae, Paris Saint-Germain’s creative midfielder Lee Kang-in, and Wolverhampton Wanderers’ dynamic forward Hwang Hee-chan are among the key players called up alongside Son.
Hong Myung-bo is confident in the blend of youth and experience in the squad. "I want to see a balance between the energy of the young players and the experience of the veterans," he said. "For that to happen, the younger players need to be confident and embrace the opportunity of being called up."
Can Son Lead South Korea to Another World Cup?
Despite his difficulties at the club level, Son remains one of South Korea’s most decorated and influential players. He has played a pivotal role in their previous World Cup campaigns and will be eager to add another tournament to his international career. If South Korea secures qualification this month, it will be another testament to Son’s enduring influence on the team, regardless of his form with Tottenham.
As the team prepares for these crucial fixtures, all eyes will be on whether Son can shake off his club woes and inspire South Korea to another World Cup appearance. If history is any indicator, the veteran forward will rise to the occasion when his country needs him most.
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