Son Heung-Min stuns at MLS, even Messi is taken aback

In under three months after arriving at Los Angeles FC (LAFC), Son Heung-Min has made a significant impact in Major League Soccer (MLS), with his jersey sales trailing only Lionel Messi of Inter Miami for the 2025 season.

According to the latest MLS report, Lionel Messi continues to hold the top spot on the list of the 10 best-selling jerseys this season, marking the third consecutive year he has dominated the sports merchandise market. However, the name right behind the Argentine legend has surprised fans: Son Heung-Min - the new signing of LAFC, who only joined the league this past August.

Son’s arrival has created a powerful ripple effect throughout MLS. Within 72 hours of being announced as LAFC’s new player, his jersey became the best-selling item on the Fanatics Network — the largest sports e-commerce platform in North America. According to MLS, Son now holds the record for the highest jersey sales in LAFC’s history, surpassing all previous records despite having played only 10 matches.

Beyond commercial success, Son has proven his quality on the field. The South Korean star scored 8 goals and provided 3 assists in just his first 9 games, helping LAFC rise to the top group in the standings. His quick adaptation and consistent performance have led experts to call him the “game-changing signing” of MLS in 2025.

Son Heung-Min’s influence extends beyond the pitch. MLS statistics show that attendance at LAFC games has increased by over 16%, especially in areas with large Asian fan bases. In South Korea and many Southeast Asian countries, LAFC matches have also reached record online viewership, demonstrating the global reach of “Sonny.”

The top 10 best-selling MLS jerseys in 2025 include Messi (Inter Miami), Son Heung-Min (LAFC), Hirving “Chucky” Lozano (San Diego), Luis Suárez (Inter Miami), Miguel Almirón (Atlanta United), Jordan Morris (Seattle Sounders), Rodrigo De Paul (Inter Miami), Darlington Nagbe (Columbus Crew), Wilfried Zaha (Charlotte FC), and Marco Reus (LA Galaxy).

Son surpassing veteran stars like Suarez, De Paul, and Reus to claim second place in the rankings highlights his unique appeal in the U.S. market. ESPN FC commented: “Son Heung-Min is not just a player; he is a global brand. MLS is witnessing a phenomenon similar to when Messi joined Inter Miami.”

Thanks to Son Heung-Min’s effect, LAFC is becoming the new focal point of MLS, both competitively and commercially. From Banc of California Stadium to souvenir shops, Son’s image is everywhere — symbolizing the fusion of football, culture, and Asian brand power in America.

With his brilliant form and expanding influence, Son Heung-Min is proving he can match Lionel Messi in visibility and commercial value, ushering in a new era for MLS where Asian stars are no longer outsiders but the center of attention.

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