LAFC Manager "Looking Forward to Son Heung-min vs. Jeong Sang-bin Clash"... National Team Call-up Timing Uncertain

Son Heung-min [Imagn Images=Yonhap News]

Steve Cherundolo, the manager of Major League Soccer (MLS) club Los Angeles FC (LAFC), has expressed his anticipation for a "Korean Derby" showdown between Son Heung-min (LAFC) and Jeong Sang-bin (St. Louis).

Speaking at a press conference two days before the match against St. Louis on the 26th (KST), Cherundolo stated, "I'm looking forward to the matchup between Son Heung-min and Jeong Sang-bin. Last game, Jeong Sang-bin didn't play, but I expect him to participate in this game in some form, whether as a starter or a substitute."

LAFC is scheduled to play an away match against St. Louis in the 2025 MLS regular season on the 28th at 9:30 AM at Energizer Park in St. Louis, Missouri.

"Jeong Sang-bin is an exciting and engaging player," Cherundolo added. "It's wonderful for Korean fans to witness a Korean Derby, and like the Korean fans, I want to see more Korean Derbies."

Jeong Sang-bin has recorded one goal and one assist in 21 MLS appearances this season.

He was excluded from the squad for the match against the San Jose Earthquakes on the 21st.

Last month, Jeong Sang-bin was called up by coach Hong Myung-bo and played as a substitute in both away international matches held in the United States (against the USA and Mexico).

Jeong Sang-bin of St. Louis [Imagn Images=Yonhap News]

Cherundolo highlighted Son Heung-min's impact, who has led the team to three consecutive wins with five goals and one assist in the last three matches.

"Son Heung-min's arrival has given our team overall confidence and energy. He has also brought a fresh dynamic," Cherundolo praised.

He continued, "His finishing ability is deadly to opposing teams. He is fast and intelligent at the same time. Defenders will find it difficult to contain an opponent with so many weapons. Therefore, when facing Son Heung-min, concentration and strategic choices are necessary," he said, expressing pride in Son Heung-min's presence.

Meanwhile, the South Korean national team, led by coach Hong Myung-bo, is preparing for two home international matches against Brazil and Paraguay on October 10th and 14th at the Seoul World Cup Stadium.

Son Heung-min, a key player for the national team, is also expected to leave his club temporarily to participate in these international fixtures.

However, Cherundolo was not aware of the exact timing of Son Heung-min's departure from LA.

He commented, "It seems likely [Son Heung-min's national team call-up] will be after the away match against Atlanta (October 6th, 10 AM), but it has not been officially confirmed," leaving room for uncertainty.

Meanwhile, Alexandru Băluță, who recently joined LAFC from Romanian club FCSB, expressed his great pleasure in playing alongside Son Heung-min.

"Son Heung-min has extensive experience on the global stage and is a role model for everyone here," Băluță said. "He has achieved great things in the UEFA Europa League with Tottenham (England)."

"I am happy to be able to play with a player like Son Heung-min," Băluță added, showing respect. "I intend to follow his lead, as he has a lot of experience." Yonhap News