How did Lionel Messi inspire Heung Min Son to join LAFC?

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Heung Min Son joined Los Angeles FC (LAFC) in MLS in a record-breaking transfer from Tottenham Hotspur after a decade at the English club. The transfer fee was approximately $26.5 million, making Son the most expensive signing in MLS history. Son, 33, signed a contract through 2027, with options extending up to 2029.

Heung Min Son's move to Los Angeles FC (LAFC) in the MLS was significantly influenced by Lionel Messi's presence and impact in the league. Son openly credited Messi for changing his mind about joining the MLS and LAFC, describing the experience of watching Messi play as a huge inspiration both professionally and personally.

How did Lionel Messi influence Heung Min Son?

Son revealed in an interview that Messi's arrival in MLS was a major factor in his decision to move. He said, "We are very lucky to watch Lionel Messi playing football. Same generation watching him playing, scoring so many goals, and joining MLS. I think he will affect so many players, and it also affects me because of what he has done for his club and for his country. He also changed my mind... I'm very lucky to share the same pitch as him".

Son joined LAFC after a decade at Tottenham Hotspur, attracted not just by a new challenge but by the chance to play in the same league as one of football's all-time greats. Despite admitting LAFC was not initially his first choice, conversations with the club and the lure of playing alongside or against Messi influenced him to open his heart and mind to the opportunity.

"From the first call when I talked to John [Thorrington, LAFC GM] after the season finished, he just changed my mind. He changed my heart. He changed my brain. He showed me the destination where I should be," the South Korean player said.

Messi's success in MLS and his soaring popularity have boosted the league's profile worldwide, with Son acknowledging that the "Messi effect" has attracted many European stars to the league, enhancing MLS's competitiveness and global appeal.