Moreno keeps Son as captain despite squad tension reports

South Korea interim head coach Robert Moreno confirmed that Son Heung-min will retain the captaincy for the national team. The decision comes amid persistent reports of friction between the Los Angeles FC forward and his senior teammates.

Moreno named the 34-year-old striker in his squad for two upcoming friendlies against Saudi Arabia and Qatar. The matches are scheduled for next month. The selection also includes the experienced Europe-based trio of Kim Min-jae, Hwang Hee-chan, and Hwang In-beom.

Reports indicated that these three players were ready to quit the national team last month. Moreno said he has held extensive talks with the group since taking over the role on an interim basis.

"I spent more time communicating than training," Moreno said at a news conference on Thursday. The session lasted more than an hour. He added that having different opinions is common even in strong teams, but resolving those differences is what matters.

When asked directly about Son's leadership role, Moreno stated: "The captain is Son Heung-min. I have nothing more to say." He described the current team dynamic as healthy and expressed confidence that the players will work together.

Speculation about discord gained traction after Bayern Munich defender Kim Min-jae threw his boots in anger. The incident occurred during a 0-0 home friendly draw with Venezuela this month. Kim was substituted in the second half and later said every player needs to give it their all, which fueled talk of divisions.

Moreno's contract expires after the two friendlies. South Korean football officials could extend his tenure for the Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia in January. The national team is under scrutiny following a poor World Cup performance where they failed to advance past the group stage, leading to the departure of previous coach Hong Myung-bo. The football association also recently urged fans to stop excessive personal attacks on players.