Thomas Frank compared Tottenham Hotspur star Micky van de Ven to Lionel Messi
Tottenham’s 4-0 dismantling of FC Copenhagen may have been about redemption and European dominance, but manager Thomas Frank only wanted to talk about one thing afterward, Micky van de Ven’s goal-of-the-season contender.
The Dutch defender started his run on the edge of his own box, powered through blue shirts like they were training cones, and smashed home an unstoppable finish inside the far post. It was part pure pace, part precision, and all heart and it left even his boss speechless. According to Football.London, here is what he said:
“It seems like we had Lionel Messi turned into Micky van de Ven, roaring down from his own goal all the way to the other end. He’s our top scorer in all competitions, so he can keep going. he can keep walking past me if he’s angry after a game!”
For a manager who prides himself on discipline and structure, Frank could only grin as his centre-back defied tactical logic. The moment summed up Tottenham’s night: fearless, expressive, and full of intent. More so, it was also a sort of redemption for the player, after snubbing Frank in the aftermath of the Chelsea defeat. The Spurs boss also appears to see the funny side now that results are back in our favour. Funny how the mood around the club can change with just one win.
A defender leading by example
Van de Ven’s strike was more than just highlight-reel material; it was symbolic of Spurs’ growing confidence. The 24-year-old has become a fan favourite for his blend of athleticism and calm, but this goal felt like the night he announced himself as one of Europe’s elite defenders.
Frank’s comments made it clear, he loves having warriors who step outside the script when the moment calls for it. Spurs fans watching at home couldn’t help but agree. If Tottenham needed a new hero to rally around, Van de Ven just wrote his own chapter into the club’s European folklore.
If Lionel Messi’s ghost ever possessed a centre-half, it would look exactly like that. For years, Tottenham fans have begged for leaders who take games by the scruff of the neck and Van de Ven is doing just that. The defender didn’t just score; he set the tone for what this team can be: disciplined, daring, and deadly. It is certainly one good way for him to apologize after his antics vs Chelsea.
