Seoul: Son Heung-min and South Korea national football team head into the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America under a cloud of uncertainty, with concerns over form, leadership, and fan confidence casting a shadow over what is expected to be their captain’s final appearance on football’s biggest stage.

At 33, Son remains the face of South Korean football, but questions surrounding his recent performances and diminishing influence have grown louder in the build-up to the tournament.

Form concerns and fading influence

Once a talismanic figure during his time at Tottenham Hotspur, Son made a high-profile move to Los Angeles FC last year. However, his impact in Major League Soccer has been modest, fuelling speculation that his peak years may be behind him.

Despite criticism, Son has pushed back strongly against claims of decline.

“I don’t think I’ve suffered any dip in my performance,” he said, insisting he would decide himself when it is time to step away from international football.

Still, South Korea will rely heavily on their captain rediscovering form if they are to progress beyond the group stage.

Tough build-up raises doubts

Preparation for the World Cup has done little to boost confidence. Heavy defeats in international friendlies — including a 4-0 loss to Ivory Coast and a 1-0 defeat to Austria — have exposed vulnerabilities within the squad.

Head coach Hong Myung-bo has come under increasing pressure, with fans openly voicing dissatisfaction over tactics and results.

“Son Heung-min is the heart of our team and I have never once doubted that,” Hong said, publicly backing his captain despite mounting criticism.

Challenging group awaits

South Korea have been drawn in Group A alongside the Czech Republic national football team, South Africa national football team, and co-hosts Mexico national football team.

They open their campaign in Guadalajara against the Czech Republic on June 11 — a match that could prove decisive in shaping their tournament prospects.

Given their recent struggles, progression to the knockout stages is far from guaranteed.

Fan unrest and federation criticism

Despite qualifying unbeaten, optimism among supporters is notably low. Reports suggest fan confidence is at an all-time low, with criticism directed not only at the team but also at the Korea Football Association.

The reappointment of Hong Myung-bo, following a turbulent managerial period that included the brief and controversial tenure of Jürgen Klinsmann, has particularly angered fans.

Supporters have even jeered Hong during matches — a rare and telling sign of discontent within South Korean football.

A squad with promise

Despite the negativity, South Korea possess a squad with considerable talent.

  • Kim Min-jae, a commanding presence in defence and a key figure at Bayern Munich
  • Lee Kang-in, an attacking midfielder with experience at top European clubs including Paris Saint-Germain

Both players are expected to play crucial roles if South Korea are to exceed expectations.

Redemption after Qatar disappointment

Son will also be eager to make amends for a disappointing showing at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, where he struggled for impact while playing with a protective mask following an eye socket injury.

South Korea were eliminated in the Round of 16 after a heavy defeat to Brazil, and Son failed to score — a rare occurrence in his international career.

Final chapter for a legend?

With 54 goals in 143 appearances, Son’s legacy as one of South Korea’s greatest-ever players is secure. However, the upcoming World Cup is widely expected to be his final appearance on the global stage.

Whether it ends in redemption or disappointment will depend not only on Son’s form but also on the team’s ability to overcome internal and external pressures.

Conclusion

South Korea enter the 2026 World Cup with more questions than answers. While talent exists within the squad, inconsistency, tactical uncertainty, and fan unrest have created a challenging environment.

For Son Heung-min, this tournament represents a last chance to shine on the world stage — and perhaps to silence doubts surrounding his twilight years in international football.


(This story has not been edited by News Karnataka staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)