As the spotlight on Lionel Messi continues to shine in Miami, another global icon is set to electrify Major League Soccer from the opposite coast. In what may be one of the most high-profile MLS transfers in recent memory, Son Heung-min has officially touched down in Los Angeles ahead of a record-breaking move to LAFC. The South Korean superstar received a roaring welcome at BMO Stadium on Tuesday night, making his first public appearance during the team’s 2-1 Leagues Cup victory over Tigres.
Fans erupted in applause when Son’s image appeared on the stadium’s big screen — a fitting reception for the most expensive signing in MLS history. But even before his official unveiling, the player must already prepare for a different kind of challenge in the United States — one that even global stars like him cannot avoid, with only one man exempt, none other than Lionel Messi.
Son’s move to the United States marks the end of an era. The 33-year-old forward bid farewell to Tottenham, where he spent a decade of top-flight soccer, scoring 173 goals in 454 appearances. In his final match — a friendly in Seoul against Newcastle — Son was substituted to a standing ovation and a guard of honor from both teams.
“It was a perfect moment,” the forward said after the match. “Sharing these beautiful moments is something I will never forget. I will always appreciate the fans, the players, and the gaffer.” The goodbye was formalized with a press conference, where he admitted, “This was the most difficult decision I have made in my career. I’ve achieved everything I can at Tottenham. I need a new environment for a fresh challenge.”
LAFC acted swiftly to secure Son’s signature, agreeing to pay a reported $26 million fee — surpassing the previous MLS record of $22 million paid by Atlanta United for Emmanuel Latte Lath. It’s a deal that brings immediate global cachet to the Los Angeles-based club.
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One rule Son must follow — And only Messi avoids it
Despite the fanfare, Son will have to adjust to one particular Major League Soccer rule that applies to nearly every player in the league. Only Inter Miami’s Lionel Messi is exempt. According to MLS guidelines, every team is required to make selected players available for post-game interviews coordinated by Apple TV, the league’s official broadcast partner.
These engagements are not optional — players must also allocate at least 15 minutes for promotional content and interviews, regardless of the match outcome or performance. “The winger will have to prepare for an upheaval of media duties,” reported GiveMeSport, “thanks to one rule that applies nearly across the board in the competition.”
While Son is no stranger to media scrutiny — having spent years in the Premier League spotlight — he will now become the franchise face of the Black and Gold, which may increase the frequency and intensity of these duties. Unlike Lionel Messi, who negotiated an exception due to his global status and sponsorship structure, Son will have no such exemption.
