LONDON / SEOUL – July 30, 2025 – In an unexpected turn of events, Tottenham Hotspur’s new head coach Thomas Frank has reportedly decided that Son Heung‑min will not be a key player in his tactical plans for the upcoming season, according to TBR Football. Despite speculation that the South Korean captain would maintain a starring role following the club’s UEFA Europa League triumph, the club appears to be preparing a shift in direction.
⚽ Frank’s Assessment and Son’s Role
Sources at TBR Football suggest that Frank “has already made up his mind” on Son’s importance to his new setup. While the 33‑year‑old remains under contract through 2026, Frank will reportedly not guarantee Son a starting position regularly and views him more as a squad player rather than a linchpin in his system .
As TBR reports, Frank is openly prepared to move forward without Son as a central figure, and is said to have already informed club officials of this view .
📣 Frank’s Public Messages: A Mixed Tone
In public statements, Thomas Frank has offered a more tempered message, praising Son’s legacy at Spurs and insisting he will still have a “very good role” next season, citing his professionalism, work ethic, and contribution in the dressing room .
Frank emphasised: “Son’s legacy here is remarkable … I see a player that can play a very good role here next season.” However, also acknowledging squad depth and new recruit Mathys Tel and others, he admitted that more attacking reinforcements could alter Son’s minutes on the pitch .
🧠 Tactical Fit and Incoming Talent
Several analysts have pointed out that Frank favours dynamic, speedy wide forwards—a style in which Son, now in his early thirties and perhaps lacking a yard of pace, may struggle to fit consistently. The arrival of rising talents such as Mathys Tel, Mikey Moore, Wilson Odobert, Brennan Johnson, and others, intensifies competition for attacking roles and further challenges Son’s place in the starting XI .
💼 Transfer Prospects Pick Up Steam
Interest in moving on is mounting. LAFC, of Major League Soccer, has advanced talks to sign Son as a Designated Player, while Saudi Pro League clubs are also reported to have approached his camp. With roughly €20–55 million quoted for his transfer value, Tottenham may be receptive to offers this summer rather than risk losing him for free when his contract expires in 2026 .
According to sources, both parties are expected to engage in further discussions after Tottenham’s upcoming preseason tour in Asia, after which Son will await clarity on his role under Frank .
🧵 Fans & Legacy in Focus
Supporters reacted strongly to Frank’s first interview, where he notably omitted any mention of Son, interpreting it as a clear signal of the South Korean’s likely exit. Fan sentiment seems to support the move, with many believing Son could depart “on a high” after winning the Europa League .
Still, discussions within the club emphasize respect for Son’s contributions over the past decade, including 173 career goals, leadership as captain, and his role in breaking the club’s 17‑year trophy drought .
✅ What happens next:
Thomas Frank and Son are expected to meet and clarify his future role.
Transfer options including MLS and Saudi interest remain active.
Tottenham may now prepare for a post‑Son era, reinvesting in younger attacking talent.
