Dominic Solanke backed to make an impact at Tottenham Hotspur as Richarlison flatters to deceive
Tottenham striker Dominic Solanke has been sidelined after suffering an ankle injury in August and had to undergo surgery for the same. He is currently under rehabilitation and is set to make his return after the international break in November. In light of his injury, Spurs signed French striker Randal Kolo Muani for a season-long loan from PSG.
Spurs acquired Solanke for £55 million (additional £10 million add-ons) from AFC Bournemouth in 2024. The English forward has scored nine goals and provided three assists last season, and proved himself to be a valuable asset for the club. He also helped his team clinch the Europa League trophy last season. However, the 28-year-old has yet to unlock his full potential at the club. With new manager Thomas Frank looking to strengthen the squad and bring in fresh signings, it remains to be seen how Solanke competes for the starting role alongside Richarlison and Kolo Muani.
Solanke has shown great promise and impressed both fans and critics with his performances for the club so far, making it unlikely that the Lilywhites would consider selling the Brit anytime soon.
, Lilywhite Rose podcast owner John Wenham stated that Solanke could be a huge upgrade on Brazilian forward Richarlison. Wenham lauded Solanke’s work rate and his goal-scoring ability, but on the flipside, criticised Richarlison for being inconsistent and injury-prone. Speaking exclusively to Tottenham News (h/t Tottenham News), Wenham said:
“By January, you’re hoping that Solanke is back and firing on all cylinders.”
“He’s a massive upgrade on Richarlison, and a very underrated player in my opinion. Unless he’s at your team, I don’t think he gets the recognition that he deserves. He works tirelessly, and he scores goals, scores a lot against the big clubs as well. Richarlison has these purple patches where he looks great, but there’s never consistency with him. There are always injuries or other reasons why he’s unavailable.“
Richarlison headed toward Tottenham exit?
The Lilywhites signed Richarlison from Everton in 2022 for £60million (including add-ons). The Brazilian is known for his aggressive style of play, high work rate, and finishing ability. He has had a rollercoaster career at Spurs, marked by injury setbacks and adaptation struggles. After a slow start in North London, Richarlison picked up form in 2023, scoring 9 goals in 11 appearances. However, due to persistent injury issues with his knee and groin impacted his availability. After the sale of star striker Harry Kane to Bayern Munich, Richarlison remains a key figure in Spurs’ front line.
Richarlison’s contract is set to expire in 2027, and rumours have emerged suggesting that he may not receive an extension. Richarlison has undoubtedly underperformed at the club, and Spurs’ whopping £60million investment is yet to pay off. With Kolo Muani joining the club and Solanke’s eventual return from injury, Richarlison could drop down the pecking order. It would not come as a surprise if Tottenham’s board decides to cut its losses and offload the striker in the near future.
