Moreno retains Son as captain after internal tension reports

Robert Moreno has confirmed that Son Heung-min will continue to serve as captain of the South Korea national team. The Spanish coach made the announcement on Thursday, putting an end to speculation about a split within the squad after a poor World Cup performance.

Moreno named Son, who is 34 and currently plays for LAFC in Major League Soccer, in the squad for two upcoming friendlies. These matches against Saudi Arabia and Qatar are scheduled for next month. The selection list also includes three veteran players based in Europe: Kim Min-jae, Hwang Hee-chan, and Hwang In-beom. Reports indicated these players were ready to retire from international duty following the World Cup exit.

Tensions surfaced after Kim Min-jae removed his boots in frustration during a 0-0 draw with Venezuela this month. The Bayern Munich defender was substituted in the second half of that match. He later stated that every player needs to focus and give their all, a comment that fueled rumors of division within the group.

Moreno, who took over on an interim basis after coach Hong Myung-bo quit following the group stage elimination, said he prioritized communication over physical training. He noted that he spent more time talking to the players than conducting drills. "Even in the best teams, people can have different opinions. What matters is how those differences are resolved," Moreno told reporters during a news conference that lasted over an hour.

When pressed on Son's role, Moreno kept his comments brief. "The captain is Son Heung-min. I have nothing more to say," he stated. He described the current state of the team as healthy and expressed confidence that the players would work together effectively.

The South Korean Football Association recently urged fans to stop excessive personal attacks on players. Moreno's contract is set to expire after the two friendlies, though officials may extend his tenure for the Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia this coming January.

The squad announcement signals an attempt to stabilize the national team after a disappointing tournament. Moreno said the selected group represents the best option for the upcoming matches, relying on the experience of the European-based veterans and the leadership of Son.