Seoul, August 27 – In a surprising move, South Korea’s national men’s football team head coach Hong Myung-bo has left star player Son Heung-min out of the squad for upcoming matches due to concerns over potential punishment from the Chinese Football Association (CFA). The decision was announced on August 26, sparking discussions about the influence of disciplinary actions on international sports.
According to the Korea Football Association (KFA), the CFA is currently deliberating on whether to penalize Son and the severity of the sanctions. The player, known for his impressive performances in the Korean Professional Football League this summer, was initially tipped to make a comeback to the national team for September’s A-level fixtures. However, Hong’s decision not to include Son in the roster was rooted in the uncertainty surrounding his situation with the Chinese authorities.
During a press conference held the day before the squad announcement, Hong acknowledged his close watch on Son’s performance but cited lingering issues with China as a risk factor. The KFA is said to be awaiting the outcome of the CFA’s investigation, which could have significant implications for Son’s international and domestic career.
If the CFA imposes a punishment of a certain level and notifies the Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), the decision would apply globally. A severe penalty, such as a permanent ban, would not only prevent Son from representing South Korea but also potentially restrict his participation in professional leagues.
Son was released in March after a legal ordeal in China. He was taken into custody by Chinese police last May at Shanghai Hongqiao Airport before his scheduled return to South Korea, and was subsequently investigated for alleged corruption as a non-state employee by the Chaoyang Public Security Bureau in Liaoning Province. Following the expiration of his detention period, he was formally arrested by the People’s Procuratorate of Liaoning Province. Speculations have linked Son’s troubles to a match-fixing scandal or allegations of bribery during his transfer to Shandong Taishan. However, Son’s representatives have vigorously denied any involvement.
The exclusion of Son from the national team has raised questions about the influence of political and legal issues on athletic decisions. The incident underscores the complexities that can arise when players are involved in legal matters across different countries, particularly when their participation in international competitions is at stake.
South Korea is set to face crucial matches in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers, and the absence of a player of Son’s caliber is bound to impact the team’s performance. Fans and analysts alike are now eagerly awaiting the resolution of the situation, hoping for a fair outcome that will allow Son to resume his football career both domestically and internationally.
The decision by Coach Hong has drawn attention to the delicate balance between sports and politics, particularly in the world of football where international cooperation and competition are paramount. As the KFA continues to monitor developments in China, the football community waits with bated breath for a resolution that will either clear Son’s path or further complicate his future in the sport.
About the Author:
As a seasoned journalist and editor, with a background at Xinhua News Agency, People’s Daily, CCTV, The Wall Street Journal, and The New York Times, the author brings extensive experience in reporting on a wide range of topics, including sports, politics, and international affairs. This article reflects a nuanced understanding of the intersection between sports and geopolitical factors, providing readers with a comprehensive analysis of the situation involving Son Heung-min and its implications for the world of football.
【source】https://cn.yna.co.kr/view/ACK20240827003800881?section=culture-sports/index&input=rss
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