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I'll search for information about Son Heung-min's style changes and adaptation, particularly focusing on any transition from the English Premier League to Major League Soccer. Let me search for more specific information about Son's adaptation to MLS and any style changes he's made since joining LAFC. Son Heung-min's transition from the English Premier League to Major League Soccer represents one of the most significant player movements in recent MLS history, completed in August 2025 when LAFC signed him for a record-breaking $26.5 million transfer fee from Tottenham Hotspur.

Career Context and Transfer Details

Son joined LAFC after a legendary 10-year tenure at Tottenham, where he scored 173 goals across all competitions and became the first Asian player to win the Premier League Golden Boot in 2021-22 [Source: https://www.lafc.com/news/lafc-signs-global-football-icon-son-heung-min]. At 33, he signed through 2027 with options extending to 2029, occupying both Designated Player and international roster spots [Source: https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/heung-min-son-lafc-sign-south-korea-tottenham-hotspur-icon-transfer-mls].

Playing Style Characteristics

Premier League Foundation
Son's EPL success was built on several key attributes:

• Exceptional pace and direct running ability
• Clinical finishing with both feet
• Versatility to play across the front line, primarily from the left wing
• Strong link-up play, particularly with Harry Kane at Tottenham
• Ability to cut inside from wide positions and create scoring opportunities

Tactical Role at Tottenham
Son typically operated in a left-wing position in various formations, often working in tandem with Kane through quick passing combinations and overlapping runs [Source: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6532210/2025/08/06/son-heung-min-lafc-tactics-fit-cherundolo-bouanga].

Early MLS Adaptation

Immediate Impact
Son's MLS debut against Chicago Fire on August 10, 2025, demonstrated his ability to adapt quickly. Coming on as a substitute with LAFC trailing 2-1, he immediately showcased his trademark acceleration and direct running, drawing a penalty kick that led to the equalizing goal [Source: https://www.mlssoccer.com/news/electric-debut-son-heung-min-makes-instant-impact-for-lafc].

Tactical Integration
LAFC coach Steve Cherundolo has multiple tactical options for incorporating Son:

• 4-2-3-1 Formation: Son could play as an attacking midfielder behind a central striker like Jeremy Ebobisse or Nathan Ordaz
• 3-4-2-1 System: Operating as one of two attacking midfielders with width provided by wingbacks
• Traditional Wing Role: Maintaining his left-wing position while forming partnerships with Denis Bouanga

Style Changes and Adaptations

Physical Demands
The transition involves adjusting to different physical demands:

• MLS's longer travel distances across North America
• Different pitch conditions and playing surfaces
• Varying altitudes and climate conditions

Tactical Flexibility
Son's adaptation appears focused on:

• Maintaining his direct running style while fitting into LAFC's existing attacking structure
• Developing chemistry with key teammates like Denis Bouanga
• Adapting to MLS's more open, less tactically rigid style compared to the Premier League's structured approach

Market and Commercial Impact
The signing represents significant commercial potential, leveraging South Korea's strong economic ties to the US market, with Korea sending nearly 20% of its exports to America [Source: https://www.theguardian.com/football/2025/aug/11/son-heung-min-lafc-mls-south-korea-business-commercial].

Son's early performances suggest he's successfully maintaining the core attributes that made him successful in the Premier League while adapting to MLS's unique characteristics. His ability to immediately impact games through pace, positioning, and game-changing moments indicates a smooth tactical transition that could set a new standard for elite international players joining Major League Soccer.