I would be ashamed of myself – Player on way to Tottenham to help Spurs, determined to succeed

In July, Tottenham Hotspur reached an agreement with Gangwon FC to secure the services of South Korean winger Yang Min-hyeok, with the move initially scheduled for January 2025. The 18-year-old has been making waves in South Korea, earning the football category award at the 2024 Futures Star Awards.

Following his achievement, Yang spoke to reporters about his upcoming transfer, revealing his excitement and mixed emotions about the significant change in his career trajectory.

Yang joined Gangwon FC in January and has since showcased his talent with an impressive 12 goals and six assists across 38 appearances. His performances have cemented his reputation as one of South Korea’s brightest young prospects.

Recently, reports surfaced suggesting that Yang’s transfer to Tottenham could happen sooner than expected. Confirming these rumors, the player expressed his readiness to make the leap to England, although he acknowledged the challenges that lie ahead.

With injuries plaguing Tottenham’s squad, the Premier League club has reportedly requested Yang to join earlier than initially planned. The player admitted that this timing aligns with his need to recover after a demanding season in South Korea.

Yang highlighted the club’s proactive approach, stating that Tottenham emphasized the importance of rest and preparation to ensure he integrates smoothly into the team.

Reflecting on his time at Gangwon, Yang described his feelings as a mix of relief and sadness. While he feels proud of how he has performed and concluded his tenure at the K League 1 side, he is also deeply emotional about leaving a club that has been instrumental in his development.

The young winger admitted that the season had flown by, and despite his initial thoughts of counting down the days, he now views this as just the beginning of a new chapter. Yang is eager to push himself further, aiming to adapt quickly to life in London and the challenges of the Premier League.

Reports from South Korean outlet Kado suggest that Tottenham’s decision to fast-track Yang’s arrival reflects their confidence in his potential. However, the player himself remains grounded, recognizing the areas where he needs to improve to succeed in England.

One of his primary focuses is building his physicality, which he acknowledges will be crucial in coping with the physical demands of the Premier League. Additionally, Yang is dedicating time to studying English to facilitate his transition and communication within the squad.

Despite not yet having direct contact with Tottenham star Son Heung-min, Yang plans to seek advice from his fellow South Korean international. He also intends to consult Yang Hyun-joon, who has experience adapting to European football, for guidance on adjusting to life in England.

These connections highlight Yang’s determination to prepare thoroughly for the challenges ahead, drawing on the experiences of those who have paved the way before him.

Looking ahead, Yang has set clear goals for his time at Tottenham and in the Premier League. His primary ambition is to establish himself as a long-term presence in the English top flight. He candidly shared that he would consider it a personal failure if he were to return to the K League prematurely.

To avoid this outcome, Yang is committed to enhancing his physical condition and adapting to the rigors of Premier League football. He understands that thriving in one of the world’s most competitive leagues requires relentless effort, resilience, and adaptability.

Yang’s move to Tottenham represents a significant milestone not only for his career but also for South Korean football, as he joins a growing list of players making their mark on the global stage. His journey reflects a blend of talent, hard work, and ambition, and his willingness to embrace new challenges underscores his determination to succeed.

For Tottenham, acquiring a promising talent like Yang signals their intent to invest in the future and diversify their attacking options. The club’s faith in his abilities, coupled with Yang’s commitment to growth, sets the stage for what could be a successful partnership.

As the January transfer window approaches, Yang’s arrival at Tottenham is eagerly anticipated by fans and analysts alike. His story is one of potential and promise, and the upcoming months will be crucial in shaping his integration into the squad.

If Yang can translate his impressive performances from the K League to the Premier League, he could emerge as a valuable asset for Tottenham and a source of pride for South Korean football. With the right support and determination, Yang Min-hyeok has the tools to achieve his dream of thriving in the Premier League, leaving a lasting legacy both at Spurs and in the broader footballing world.