Why Son Heung-min Isn’t Starting for LAFC vs. Chicago Fire?

Son Heung-min was one of the three biggest signings in MLS this summer, alongside Rodrigo De Paul and Thomas Müller. However, while Son was officially available to play his first game as an LAFC player, he was not in the starting lineup against the Chicago Fire — leaving fans wondering what happened.

The 33-year-old South Korean joined LAFC from Tottenham in the most expensive transfer in MLS history, worth around $26 million. His arrival in the same transfer window as other former European football stars has made the second half of the season more exciting and competitive.

Officially cleared for the match against Chicago Fire at SeatGeek Stadium on in Bridgeview, Illinois, Son was expected to start. Instead, manager Steve Cherundolo opted to leave Son Heung-min on the bench for his debut, likely planning to bring him on in the second half to help him regain match rhythm.

Son spent several weeks last season dealing with a foot injury, which contributed to one of his worst campaigns since joining the Spurs. Now fully fit, the South Korean is still expected to make his debut on Saturday, August 9, against the Fire.