LAFC's Road to the 2025 MLS Cup: Son Heung-Min's Impact and World Cup Preparations
The 2025 MLS regular season has concluded, and the MLS playoffs are set to begin this week. LAFC is considered one of the top contenders to win the 2025 MLS Cup after finishing 3rd in the Western Conference with 60 points. They secured 17 wins, nine draws, and eight defeats in 34 league matches. LAFC's recent success can be attributed to the addition of Son Heung-Min, who joined the team from Tottenham Hotspur during the summer transfer window. Son has made an immediate impact, scoring nine goals and providing two assists in just 10 MLS games.
In the upcoming MLS playoffs, LAFC will face off against Austin FC in the first round. As the team gears up for the postseason, Son Heung-Min is reportedly considering his future plans, with a focus on preparing for the 2026 World Cup. According to reports from TransferFeed, Son is looking to emulate David Beckham's strategy of temporarily leaving the MLS to return to Europe for World Cup preparations.
David Beckham, who played for the LA Galaxy in 2007, made a similar move in 2009 when he joined AC Milan on loan to prepare for the 2010 World Cup. Son is said to be exploring options to return to European football in early 2026, with AC Milan being one of the potential destinations. Son's decision to follow in Beckham's footsteps highlights his commitment to maximizing his performance ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
In conclusion, LAFC's strong performance in the 2025 MLS season, fueled by Son Heung-Min's contributions, has positioned them as a formidable contender in the upcoming playoffs. Son's potential move to Europe to prepare for the 2026 World Cup underscores his dedication to achieving success on the international stage. As the MLS playoffs kick off, all eyes will be on LAFC and Son Heung-Min as they aim to make a deep run in pursuit of the MLS Cup.