Son Heung-Min Credits Lionel Messi for LAFC Decision: 'Changed My Mind'

As a new LAFC player, Son Heung-Min gave his first words on the MLS and more insight on his decision to join the league. He mentioned in his presentation that LAFC was not his first choice, but he mentioned that the president changed his mind.

In an interview with ESPN, Son was asked about another star in the MLS, Lionel Messi.

The Inter Miami star arrived in the league in 2023 and has since grown the club and the MLS, with the league’s interest rising at a very high rate. With the arrival of Son Heung-Min, the popularity of the MLS grows even more.

Son mentions that Messi in the MLS was a factor in his arrival at the league and believes it will be the start of other stars in top European football arriving as well.

When discussing Messi, Son praised the Argentine star and believes that the star changed his mind in joining LAFC as well.

Son Heung-Min on Lionel Messi's Impact

When asked about Messi’s impact in the MLS, Son reveals that the star was a key part of his decision to join the MLS as well. He mentioned feeling excited to play on the same pitch as Messi once again after a few encounters in Europe.

Son Heung-Min: “We are very lucky to watching 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 done for his club and for his country. He also changed my mind… I’m very lucky to share the same pitch as him.”

LAFC and Inter Miami last played in April in the CONCACAF Champions Cup. They don’t have a scheduled match in the MLS for the remainder of the league calendar, but could face off in the MLS Cup Final.