Mathys Tel is finding it hard to adapt to Thomas Frank’s system at Tottenham Hotspur
Things have not gone as planned for Tottenham forward Mathys Tel at N17. The Frenchman joined the Lilywhites on a permanent deal in the summer after impressing the club’s hierarchy during his loan spell last season. However, a slow start to the campaign has seen the 20-year-old slip down the pecking order under Thomas Frank.
In a surprising move, Tel was left out of Tottenham’s Champions League squad for the group-stage fixtures. The decision frustrated the young attacker, who set out to prove his worth in other competitions. To his credit, he handled the setback professionally and eventually worked his way back into the starting eleven.
His recent display against Manchester United showed just how important he can be to Frank’s system. Tel was greeted with loud boos from sections of the home crowd when he came on in the second half, but he responded in the best possible manner only four minutes later. His superb strike against the Red Devils secured a point for the Lilywhites, as he turned Matthijs de Ligt and fired the ball into the top corner past Senne Lammens.
Mathys Tel facing uncertain future at Tottenham amid AS Roma interest
Speaking after the match against United, Tel insisted he would continue working hard and believed his chance to play regularly would come sooner rather than later. The Frenchman has remained a model professional, showing determination and hunger to prove himself at N17 despite his Champions League exclusion.
Still, questions remain about his long-term future under Frank. The Danish tactician does not appear to see Tel as a first-choice centre-forward anytime soon, suggesting that a change of environment may be necessary for the youngster to revive his career. Limited opportunities have affected his growth at a time when he is trying to rebuild confidence and belief.
Gazzetta dello Sport has now provided an update on Tel’s immediate future. The report claims the Frenchman is open to leaving the club either permanently or on loan, as he seeks regular playing time. Minutes have been scarce for him at Tottenham this season, particularly after his Champions League omission.
According to the same report, AS Roma are monitoring Tel’s situation closely and want to sign him in January to strengthen their attack for the second half of the season. The Serie A giants have shifted their focus to Tel after their move for Joshua Zirkzee was rejected by Manchester United. They view the Spurs forward as a versatile option who can play as a striker or on the left wing.
It remains to be seen what lies ahead for the former Bayern Munich prospect. His contract at Tottenham runs until 2031, making a permanent sale unlikely. The Lilywhites still believe he has the qualities to develop into a world-class player under Thomas Frank in the years to come.