Son Heung-min and South Korea head to North America in a state of confusion that threatens to overshadow them, for what will surely be their last World Cup of their charm.
The 33-year-old captain has faced increasing questions about his poor condition and international future while coach Hong Myung-bo is unpopular with fans.
Pre-World Cup friendlies added to the discontent, with a 4-0 defeat by Ivory Coast and a 1-0 defeat by Austria.
Hong was later moved to defend Son, who left Premier League side Tottenham last year to join Major League Soccer side Los Angeles FC as his best days appeared to be behind him.
“Son Heung-min is the heart of our team and I have never once doubted that,” Hong told reporters.
South Korea are in Group A with the Czech Republic, South Africa and co-hosts Mexico.
