Los angeles: Son Heung-min has quickly made an impression on Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) after participating in just one and a half matches since joining the team less than two weeks ago. The South Korean forward showcased his skills during the Major League Soccer (MLS) debut as a second-half substitute against Chicago FC on August 9, and more prominently in his first start against New England Revolution, where he provided an assist in a 2-0 victory.
According to Yonhap News Agency, LAFC head coach Steve Cherundolo expressed his admiration for Son's intelligence and field presence during the post-match press conference. Cherundolo emphasized Son's ability to combine technical and physical attributes, noting that the 120 minutes played so far have laid a strong foundation for building future success. The coach anticipates that Son's influence will grow as he becomes more integrated with his teammates.
Son, who joined LAFC after a decade with Tottenham Hotspur, where he won the Premier League Golden Boot in the 2021-2022 season, has already adapted to a new role in the team. Cherundolo opted to position Son centrally, supported by wingers Denis Bouanga and David Martinez, to leverage his capacity to control the attack's pace and create scoring opportunities.
Marco Delgado, a central midfielder for LAFC, praised Son for maintaining game fluidity and serving as a reliable option on the field. Delgado remarked on the positive impact Son has had on the team's dynamics, describing him as the "missing piece" that enhances team cohesion and performance.
Mathieu Choiniere, who scored LAFC's second goal, commended Son's ability to simplify play for his teammates. He noted the anticipation of Son scoring soon, highlighting the forward's significant influence even without finding the back of the net.
Beyond his on-field contributions, Son has been acknowledged for his positive energy and motivational presence in training sessions. Cherundolo spoke about Son's joyful demeanor and communication skills, which have positively affected the team's morale. Additionally, Cherundolo mentioned potential challenges Son might face with MLS's travel demands but expressed confidence in Son's adaptability and continued success in the league.