'Come back for Son Heung-min!' Ecuador makes plea to Ventura
South American media has sent a plea to Paulo Bento, the manager of South Korea, urging him to bring Son Heung-min back into the fold. The move is seen as a potential game-changer for South Korea's squad depth ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Bento's decision could now shape the team's path through the group stage.
What happened
Ecuadorian outlets proposed that Bento join their national team setup after South Korea's 1-1 draw with Jordan on March 25, 2025. The offer not only raises the prospect of Son's return to the South Korea squad but also adds a new variable to Bento's tactical planning. In the 2026 World Cup, South Korea sits third in their group with 3 points from 3 games (1W-0D-2L), having scored 2 goals and conceded 3(-1 goal difference).
Why it matters
This plea isn't just about Ecuador's interest in South Korea's players. It could directly impact Bento's choices and South Korea's chances of advancing. The team trails Mexico by 6 points in the group and needs at least two more wins to secure a top-two finish. Son's return would boost both attacking firepower and fan morale ahead of crunch matches.
What comes next
Bento's call on Son could decide South Korea's fate at the 2026 World Cup. The team currently sits third with 3 points (1W-0D-2L) from 3 games, having scored 2 goals and conceded 3(-1). Their last result was a 1-1 draw with Jordan, and they are unbeaten in their last two games (DW). With the group stage still wide open, every decision now counts.
