Tottenham Hotspur has revised its Champions League squad as they prepare for the knockout stages, and manager Thomas Frank has made all three permitted changes. This adjustment highlights the ongoing challenges the club faces regarding player registration, particularly due to the requirement for club-trained players. Spurs currently have only one of the necessary four, leaving them to navigate UEFA’s rules that mandate leaving three spots vacant in their 25-man squad.
One of the most notable omissions from the lineup is Dejan Kulusevski, a key player for Tottenham, who has been sidelined due to a complicated knee injury. Frank’s decision not to include Kulusevski suggests that his recovery is not progressing as hoped since Frank had initially expressed optimism about his rehabilitation following an injection intended to alleviate knee pain. The injury he sustained last season at Crystal Palace has proven to be quite complex, and the manager’s candidness indicates that it may take more time for Kulusevski to return to full fitness.
Spurs have also welcomed new additions in the form of Conor Gallagher, Mathys Tel, and Radu Dragusin. Gallagher’s registration offsets the absence of injured players like Ben Davies and Rodrigo Bentancur, as well as Brennan Johnson, who transferred to Crystal Palace in January. Tel, who joined Spurs for a sizeable fee last summer, will be eager to demonstrate his capabilities after a rocky first few months, while Dragusin rejoices in a return to the Champions League after a year-long recovery from a cruciate ligament injury.
The removal of long-term injured players from the squad gives insight into who might return sooner. Mohammed Kudus and Lucas Bergvall are reportedly recovering, with Kudus likely to be back after the international break at the end of March. Meanwhile, Rodrigo Bentancur and James Maddison are expected to rejoin the squad later in the season, as both continue their rehabilitations after significant injuries. In contrast, Ben Davies, who recently underwent surgery for his ankle injury, is not expected to return anytime soon.
Yves Bissouma, who played in Tottenham’s last few matches, was also left out of the Champions League squad. As other players recover, Bissouma’s opportunities may diminish, despite having an option for the club to extend his contract next summer.
The decision to exclude young talents such as Souza, Mason Melia, and James Wilson was anticipated, as the club needs to reserve spots for more experienced players. However, both Melia and Wilson, who have already accumulated significant senior football experience, are expected to make an impact with the U21 squad as they continue to develop.
Tottenham’s revised squad signifies not only the tactical decisions made by Frank but also reflects the broader landscape of resilience and recovery the team must navigate as they pursue success in the Champions League. While the absence of some key players, such as Kulusevski, is undoubtedly disappointing, the club’s commitment to nurturing young talents and adapting to challenges presents an opportunity for growth and future success.