In an exclusive interview with The Korea Daily after his official press conference, Son Heung-Min opened up about his move to Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC), the motivations behind leaving Europe, and his determination to make an impact in Major League Soccer.
The Korean soccer star said he approached the transfer with “the mindset of starting from zero” and wants to “remain a legend” by helping grow the league and leading his new team to success.
Q: You said you want to start from zero. What do you mean?
A: “I want to do my best with the mindset of starting from zero so I can remain a legend.”
Q: Why did you decide to transfer to LAFC?
A: “After winning the Europa League, I felt like I had achieved everything. My heart felt empty, and I wasn’t motivated anymore. I felt I needed a new challenge, and I decided now was the right time.”
Q: How did those around you react to your decision?
A: “My family and close friends were all proud of me and supported the decision. Even now, they’re happy seeing me in LA. Now it’s my turn to make them proud.”
Q: Did Hugo Lloris give you any advice about LA?
A: “He told me LA traffic is bad,” Son said with a laugh. “It’s not a big problem for me. London traffic was bad too. If you leave 10 minutes earlier, it’s fine. Long-distance travel could be a challenge, but that’s okay. I came to LA to help grow this league and to do whatever it takes to lead this team to a better position.”
Q: What do you plan to do in LA outside of soccer?
A: “I came only to play soccer. I didn’t think about anything else, and right now, I just want to get out on the field and play.”
Q: Have you visited LA before?
A: “Yes, in 2018. I had booked a trip to Las Vegas with flights and a hotel, but I got injured in the final match of the season and had to rush home for surgery. At the time, I thought, ‘I’ll never come back to LA.’ Now, it’s funny that I’m here, and I really enjoy being in LA.”
BY KYEONGJUN KIM [kim.kyeongjun1@koreadaily.com]
