Son Heung-min's Emotional Tottenham Exit Overshadowed by James Maddison's Devastating Injury Blow
"Life and football can simultaneously deliver moments of wonder and heartbreak," Thomas Frank reflected thoughtfully when describing Tottenham Hotspur's dramatic pre-season encounter with Newcastle United on Sunday.
The match in South Korea served as Son Heung-min's emotional send-off following the Spurs skipper's announcement of his departure from north London. The 33-year-old attacker walked off the field to thunderous applause in the 65th minute before his anticipated record transfer to LAFC.
Son was moved to tears as he observed the remaining action from the sidelines.
James Maddison had only just returned from those very same comfortable seats when he was carried off on a stretcher in the 86th minute. Lucas Bergvall appeared deeply concerned while witnessing his Spurs colleague receive medical attention after suddenly pulling up without contact.
Frank expressed grave concern about Maddison's injury, stating it "appears serious" and suggesting it might involve the same knee that sidelined him during the final weeks of the 2024–25 season.
Sunday's friendly carried a noticeable intensity throughout. Brennan Johnson had put his side ahead within four minutes before Harvey Barnes netted the leveling goal in a heated 1–1 stalemate near the close of the opening period.
Newcastle's Brazilian midfielder Bruno Guimarães clashed with his Argentine opposite Cristian Romero shortly following Barnes's strike, with both South Americans grappling with each other in an incident that escaped official attention. Early in the second period, Joelinton seemed to thrust his forearm toward Archie Gray's face in another heated moment that went unpenalized.
Son's emotional departure after the hour seemed to ease tensions—even Newcastle's squad participated in giving the winger a respectful send-off. Maddison's setback occurred without any physical contact, which could prove more troubling for Spurs with under two weeks remaining before the new Premier League season begins.
Frank adopted his characteristic reflective approach when considering the contrast between beauty and brutality. "That's what we witnessed today," he remarked. "It appears Madders has suffered a serious injury, yet on the flip side we saw incredible moments for Son from his colleagues and genuine respect from Newcastle's players."