So, the much anticipated Son Heung-min transfer to the MLS is complete – with the former Spurs star joining LAFC. However, in a hilarious moment at his press conference unveiling – a US Councillor seemed to think that South Korean-born Son is able to help the US win the World Cup in 2026.
You can watch the ‘awkward’ clip below at the recent Son Heung-min press conference.
Son Heung-min Press Conference Sees Councillor Thinking He Can Play For US National Team
It seems maybe the US should stick to their ‘American’ version of football.
As – at the recent Son Heung-min press conference to showcase the new LAFC player – a Councillor actually seemed to think the former Premier League player can play for the USA National soccer team.
Now, as most people know – but clearly not Los Angeles Councilmember Heather Hutt of the 10th District – Son’s nationality is South Korean.
Meaning he’s got about as much chance of playing for the US soccer team as Donald Trump beating Usain Bolt in a 100m race.
The monster gaff can be seen below with Hutt saying “No pressure, when the World Cup comes, we’re expecting a win here in Los Angeles… for the USA.’ Yes, to Son. Heung. Min.”
Adding “We’re so glad to have you,” she added. “You are bringing your smile and your talent, your culture, to LAFC.”
USA will host the FIFA World Cup in 2026 with Canada and Mexico – which is what Councilor Hutt is referring to.
“No pressure… when the World Cup comes, we are expecting a win here in LA for the USA, we are here to support you to get that done”
Wait, does she think Son 🇰🇷 will play for the USMNT 🇺🇸? 😂😭😂 pic.twitter.com/wK2pFF7i2G
— Tactical Manager (@ManagerTactical) August 6, 2025
The Son Heung-min Press Conference Blunder Also Led to Fans Taking To Social Media
As a result of Heather Hutt’s ‘misunderstanding’ – it was no shock to see an array of responses on social media.
Including some saying “Wait, does she think Son will play for the USMNT?” and a third commented: “Should we laugh or cry?”
And another embarrassed US resident adding – “Dude… Our countries general knowledge about Futbol/soccer is so freaking behind. This is embarrassing,” and a fifth added: “That was such a bad press conference.. half the politicians they let talk had no clue who he was.”
Son Heung-min Transfer Is The Most Expensive In MLS History
Having played for 10 years at Tottenham the Son Heung-min transfer has finally been completed to LAFC in the MLS.
The 33 year-old striker played 454 times for Tottenham – scoring 173 goals – and said on his departure it was one of the hardest decisions of his career.
On his move Son said “I need a new environment to push myself,” he admitted. “I need a little bit of change – 10 years is a long time.”
Despite interest from other clubs, including from Saudi Arabia, LAFC paid a MLS record fee of £20m for Son on a two-year deal.
“It’s time for me to say goodbye to Tottenham Hotspur. My home for the past decade. When I arrived in 2015, I didn’t speak English, I didn’t know London, but you welcomed me with open arms, believed in me, and stood by me through every high and low.” Son added
His final game for Tottenham was in a friendly against Newcastle – played in Son’s native land South Korea on Sunday 2nd August. With the game ending in a 1-1 draw.
With no Son, the opening Premier League fixture for Tottenham will see them face Premier League new-boys Burnley at home on Saturday August 16th.
LAFC are currently sitting in sixth in the MLS Western Conference after 22 games – 10 points off leaders San Diego FC.
Their next league game is away at Chicago Fire on Sunday 10th August, with the football betting sites making LAFC the 9/5 favourites to win the game.
USA To Host 2026 World Cup With Canada and Mexico
The USA will play FIFA World Cup hosts in 2026 with Mexico and Canada.
It will be the second time the US has entertained the biggest football tournament on the planet – having hosted in 1994 too.
At the last World Cup in 2022, US soccer team were grouped with both Wales and England – drawing with both sides.
They made it out of the group stages, but lost 3-1 to the Netherlands in the Round of 16 matches – so will be hoping to do better in their own backyard in 2026.
