Rising star Son Heung-Min put in yet another impressive performance in the pre-season buildup to the start of the Bundesliga as Hamburg was held by 2. Fußball-Bundesliga side 1860 Munich in a 1-1 draw. Coming on as a substitute at the start of the second half for Venezuelan Tomás Rincón, Son Heung-Min immediately lifted the crowd with his pace, dribbling and passing. Many fans were quick to comment on Hamburg’s online fan forums that in addition to being “fun” and exciting to watch that the youngster exuded a sense of tactical intelligence and adroit passing ability, finding players with seeming ease and playing “intelligent balls“. Many have also been impressed by his physicality, calling him “bloody strong”, and sheer pace on the ball and ability to find and generate space “reminiscent of Messi“.
In the past two months or so, Son Heung-Min has quickly generated much interest and has garnered much praise from fans, management, and colleagues alike. HSV blogger and football expert Dieter Matz said of Son’s performance that it “is quite simply a pleasure [to watch him play]“. Similarly, Dutch superstar Ruud van Nistelrooy has been impressed by Son’s abilities and has taken the young Korean under his wing as his protegee in the art of striking. In an interview with the Hamburger Morgenpost, Son has also reciprocated the feeling by declaring his sense of admiration for the Dutch superstar, calling him his “idol” and being grateful for his tutelage on and off the field. Despite all the heightened expectations and laudatory remarks, the 18-year old has his head firmly on his shoulders stating that while he realizes more eyes will be on him in the coming season he will show “patience” in competing for a spot in the team.
A brief highlight of Son Heung-Min against 1860 Munich can be seen starting at the 1:39 mark:
