'Not even 1% to blame the coach' Son Heung-min, despite goalless silence, cheerfully and confidently declares, "I saved it up to explode at the World Cup" — "My ability remains unchanged"

*This content was translated by AI.

Son Heung-min (34, LAFC) showed confidence heading toward the upcoming 2026 FIFA North America World Cup despite a goal drought.

Global soccer specialist 'Goal.com' conducted an interview with Son Heung-min on the 22nd (Korean time) in connection with a Hyundai Motor campaign. The outlet reported, "Son Heung-min will prove his true worth once again at his fourth World Cup, shedding his goal drought."

Son Heung-min made a strong impression by scoring 12 goals in 13 matches after joining LAFC midway through last season. However, this season, despite contributing 16 assists in 20 official matches and playing as a "top-tier playmaker," he has yet to register his first goal in Major League Soccer (MLS).

LAFC, unlike its early-season surge, has fallen into a three-game losing streak in the league recently, dropping to seventh place in the Western Conference. While criticism has arisen regarding Marc Dos Santos' tactics, Son Heung-min drew a firm line. He stated, "It is not the coach's fault. I simply had some bad luck, such as being stopped by incredible saves from opposing goalkeepers. It is entirely my responsibility." He added, "Honestly, who would I blame?" while taking self-blame.

Nevertheless, there is no impatience regarding scoring. Son Heung-min showed composure, saying, "My physical condition and mood are both excellent. Although goals haven't come, it feels like I am saving them up to explode at the World Cup." He continued, "I have scored countless goals in the past, and that ability will never disappear. My scoring technique is always within me," expressing strong confidence.

Although he is stepping onto the World Cup stage for the fourth time, his excitement remains unchanged. Son Heung-min conveyed his overwhelming emotions, saying, "It does not matter how many times I have played in the World Cup. Even as a grown adult, thinking about the World Cup makes me feel like a child again."

The outlet reported, "Compared to the 2014 Brazil World Cup, where he participated as the 21st-year-old youngest player and scored against Algeria, Son Heung-min's status is now completely different. He has worn the captain's armband for seven years, and alongside him are teammates such as Kim Min-jae (Bayern Munich), Lee Kang-in (Paris Saint-Germain), and Hwang In-beom (Feyenoord), who are all active on the world's top stages. Additionally, German-born Jens Castro (Borussia Mönchengladbach) has joined as the country's first naturalized player, further strengthening the squad's power."

Although expectations for the South Korean national football team have grown and the burden on the ace has increased, Son Heung-min views this positively. He stated, "The burden is evidence that we are performing well. It makes me a better player and person." He added, "My teammates are providing tremendous help, so I always share the burden. It is enjoyable to inspire and teach the new generation."

Son Heung-min said, "We cannot casually promise results or goals," but also declared his resolve for the North America World Cup, stating, "We hope to play our own brand of attacking football in every match. We will fight and help each other."

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*This content was translated by AI.