Son Heung-min debuts for LAFC

Korean forward Son Heung-min makes his LAFC debut lasting 29 minutes, drawing varied reactions from U.S. media after joining from Tottenham.

Son Heung-min fuels media response after LAFC debut

Son Heung-min joined LAFC on a two-year contract from Tottenham Hotspur for a fee reported to exceed £20 million. The 33-year-old was introduced as a second-half substitute in LAFC's 2-2 draw with Chicago Fire at SeatGeek Stadium, where he drew a penalty that Denis Bouanga converted. He later said the move was not his first choice, but that he is now excited and ready to contribute.

Media outlets quickly weighed in. Sports Illustrated called him a player who will be good for LAFC in Major League Soccer and noted his influence in earning the late penalty. The Athletic praised his activity and space on the counterattack, while AOL reported three shots and a few clear chances. Local fans have even started calling him Sonny as he settles into his new club.

This signing signals MLS's growing appeal to top talent and the media narratives that come with high-profile moves. A transfer fee in excess of £20 million and a debut that included a penalty creates a expectations bar that fans will expect to be met in every appearance.

Son’s openness about initially not choosing LAFC shows the personal side of a big relocation, while his early contributions demonstrate that MLS can deliver impact quickly when a star arrives. Yet the financial scale and intense coverage raise the stakes for his MLS tenure, making the next stretch of games pivotal to justify the investment and shape how the league is perceived abroad.

Highlights

The next tests lie ahead as Son steps into MLS more regularly.