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WILL SON HEUNG-MIN PLAY IN THE 2026 WORLD CUP?

Son Heung-min, the undisputed captain and living legend of South Korean football, remains one of the biggest names in Asian football. With the 2026 World Cup just around the corner, the big question is: will Son make the final squad? At 33 years old (in 2026), the Tottenham forward still has plenty left in the tank and a lot to offer. In this article, we review his recent performances, his influence on the national team, and the likelihood of him leading South Korea once again at the world's biggest football tournament.

Son Heung-min's Present


Son Heung-min, born on July 8, 1992, in Chuncheon, South Korea, is the current captain of the South Korean national team and a historic figure for Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League. From his professional debut with Hamburg to becoming one of the most influential Asian players of the 21st century, Son has made his mark with his speed, precision, and quiet leadership.


In the 2024-2025 season with Tottenham, Son has recorded 14 goals and 9 assists in 32 official matches. Furthermore, he has been key in the qualifying matches for South Korea, contributing 3 goals and 2 assists in the second round of the Asian qualifiers.


An icon who continues to deliver


Although he no longer has the explosiveness of his best years, his tactical intelligence, finishing ability, and experience keep him as an undisputed starter. Son has adapted his game to be more cerebral, relinquishing physical prominence but gaining in game reading and precision in the final third.


  • Age in 2026: 33 years

  • Goals with South Korea: 44

  • Assist with Korea: 28

  • International matches: 124

  • Minutes per game in 2025: 82


Son remains among the top 5 active Asian goalscorers and is, without question, the heart of the South Korean attack.


South Korea's Road to 2026


The South Korean national team is undergoing a renewal process with emerging new talents, but Son remains the emotional and on-field leader. Under the guidance of German coach Jürgen Klinsmann (who renewed his contract until 2026), Korea has displayed an attacking yet organized style of play, relying on a solid foundation with European experience.


Until October 2025, Korea leads its group in the second round of Asian qualifying with a perfect record: 12 out of 12. Son has started all 4 matches, directly contributing to 5 of the team's 10 goals. His importance to the tactical scheme is total.


A generation that blends youth and experience


Alongside young players like Lee Kang-in and Jeong Woo-yeong, Son brings veteran leadership, intelligence, and composure in key moments. His leadership has been vital in tough matches against Iraq and Uzbekistan, where his composure helped hold onto the result when things got complicated.


  • Qualifying Group: B (Asia)

  • Points in 2nd Round: 12

  • Goal Difference: +9

  • Son's Goals in Qualifying: 3

  • Times as Captain: 98


With this outlook, South Korea has one foot and a half in the World Cup, and everything points to Son Heung-min being there to lead the team once again.


The world of football is buzzing with anticipation. The 2026 World Cup is fast approaching, and national teams are battling for their place in the biggest tournament, where every match defines the dreams and hopes of millions of fans.With three host countries—the United States, Mexico, and Canada—this edition promises to be historic: more teams, more goals, and a unique global experience. Coaches are fine-tuning their strategies, and players are vying for their ticket to the most anticipated tournament.The countdown has begun. The ball is about to start rolling, and the whole world awaits the moment a new chapter begins.The World Cup is almost here… and the passion is palpable.

The world of football is buzzing with anticipation. The 2026 World Cup is fast approaching, and national teams are battling for their place in the biggest tournament, where every match defines the dreams and hopes of millions of fans.With three host countries—the United States, Mexico, and Canada—this edition promises to be historic: more teams, more goals, and a unique global experience. Coaches are fine-tuning their strategies, and players are vying for their ticket to the most anticipated tournament.The countdown has begun. The ball is about to start rolling, and the whole world awaits the moment a new chapter begins.The World Cup is almost here… and the passion is palpable.

How likely is it that Son will play in the World Cup?


Right now, it would be more surprising if he didn't play. Barring a serious injury, Son is guaranteed a place on the final roster for the 2026 World Cup. Klinsmann has reiterated in press conferences that "Son is the soul of the team" and that his presence is fundamental to maintaining order and ambition in the locker room.


His role as a mentor to the new generation also makes him almost indispensable.

Although he probably won't play the full 90 minutes of every match, his strategic contribution will be key both on and off the pitch.


Factors that ensure his presence


  • Current form in the Premier League

  • Total commitment to the national team

  • World Cup experience (played in 2014, 2018 and 2022)

  • Tactical and emotional influence

  • Physical condition without major injuries


Furthermore, South Korea has high expectations for this World Cup. The goal is to reach at least the quarterfinals, and for that they need the best of Son: his striking ability, his composure, and his ever-present smile in tense moments. At 33, this could be his last World Cup, and he knows it. He won't let it slip away without a fight.

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