Son Heung-min and Ange Postecoglou led Tottenham to winning the Europa League as captain and manager, but the Australian has now been sacked after an awful Premier League campaign
LONDON, ENGLAND - MARCH 16: Son Heung-Min and Ange Postecoglou, Manager of Tottenham Hotspur, look dejected after the Premier League match between Fulham FC and Tottenham Hotspur FC at Craven Cottage on March 16, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)
Son Heung-min has penned an emotional farewell message to Ange Postecoglou
(Image: Richard Pelham/Getty Images)
Tottenham captain Son Heung-min has penned an emotional farewell message to Ange Postecoglou after the Australian was sacked. Son was named captain by Postecoglou after Harry Kane was sold to Bayern Munich in 2023.
Together, they led Spurs to winning the Europa League last month, beating Manchester United in the final. It was the club's first trophy for 17 years and their first European title since 1984.
But Postecoglou has still lost his job after overseeing an awful Premier League campaign that saw Spurs finish 17th. It was their lowest placing in the league since 1977, when they were relegated to the second tier.
Despite their poor season on the domestic front, Postecoglou remained a popular figure in the dressing room. And Son has now made it clear just how highly valued Postecoglou was by his squad.
"Gaffer. You’ve changed the trajectory of this club. You believed in yourself, and us, since day one and never wavered for a second. Even when others did," the South Korean said on Instagram, alongside a photo of himself holding the Europa League trophy with Postecoglou.
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"You knew what we were capable of all along. You did it your way. And your way brought this club the best night it’s had in decades. We will have those memories for life. You trusted me with the captaincy.
"One of the highest honours of my career. It’s been an incredible privilege to learn from your leadership up close, I am a better player and a better person because of you. Ange Postecoglou, you are a Tottenham Hotspur legend forever. Thank you, mate."
Postecoglou also issued a statement in the aftermath of his sacking. He said: When I reflect on my time as manager of Tottenham Hotspur my overriding emotion is one of pride. The opportunity to lead one of England's historic football clubs and bring back the glory it deserves will live with me for a lifetime.
Son Heung-Min of Tottenham Hotspur captain of Tottenham Hotspur celebrates with the trophy
Son and Postecoglou led Spurs to winning the Europa League last month
"Sharing that experience with all those who truly love this club and seeing the impact it had on them is something I will never forget. That night in Bilbao was the culmination of two years of hard work, dedication and unwavering belief in a dream.
"There were many challenges to overcome and plenty of noise that comes with trying to accomplish what many said was not possible. We have also laid the foundation that mean this club should not have to wait 17 more years for their next success.
"I have enormous faith in this group of players and know there is much more potential and growth in them. I sincerely want to thank those who are the lifeblood of the club, the supporters.
"I know there were some difficult times but I always felt that they wanted me to succeed and that gave me all the motivation I need to push on. It's important to acknowledge the hard working people at Spurs who gave me encouragement on a daily basis.
"And finally I want to thank those who were with me every day for the last two years. A fantastic group of young men who are now legends of this football club and the brilliant coaches who never once doubted we could do something special. "We are forever connected. Audere est Facere. Ange."
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