Antonin Kinsky will enter the 2026/27 season as Tottenham’s new No.1.
Tottenham Hotspur handed a new contract to Antonin Kinsky at the end of June. It was a reward to the goalkeeper’s remarkable turnaround in fortunes after Roberto De Zerbi was appointed as the Spurs boss in March.
Antonin Kinsky had a rollercoaster first full season with Spurs, hauntingly being substituted just 17 minutes into their Champions League debut against Atletico Madrid after conceding three goals. The Czech Republic glovesman made two catastrophic errors early on, as Atletico Madrid cruised to a 5-2 win in the first leg of the last-16 tie. He was hauled off by interim manager Igor Tudor and replaced by Guglielmo Vicario.
With Vicario sidelined, De Zerbi trusted Kinsky in goal and he repaid it with some impressive displays across the final seven games. The youngster was instrumental in Spurs retaining its top-flight status, most notably making heroic saves against Wolves, Leeds United and Everton.
Brad Friedel makes admission on Antonin Kinsky ahead of the 2026/27 season
At the start of July, De Zerbi heaped praise on Kinsky after the young shot-stopper committed his long-term future to the North London club. He outlined how the 23-year-old’s performances, mentality and leadership completely justified the hierarchy’s timely move to extend his stay.
Kinsky has now been made the No.1 by the Italian coach, despite having just 16 Premier League appearances to his name. And after this development, former goalkeeper Brad Friedel made an assessment. The American, who now works as a pundit, believes that Kinsky is more than ready to be Tottenham’s No.1.
“Technically, yes he’s ready,” Brad Friedel exclusively told 3 Added Minutes.
“He’s more than ready, actually, as a number one goalkeeper – and now confidence-wise and psychologically he’s ready as well, because he went through one of the most public situations that could really hurt someone’s career.”
Kinsky must relish the big challenge
Kinsky stepped onto the pitch under chaotic circumstances during the final phase of a difficult campaign and showed incredible composure and resilience to guide Tottenham to safety. After a forgettable Champions League debut, it was a test of character for the young and inexperienced glovesman, and he passed it with flying colours.
Promoted from a back-up to the No.1, the pressure is now different on the former Czech Republic youth international. He will be scrutinised week in, week out by the media, critics and the fans. Kinsky has got his confidence levels back, is supported by the gaffer and the fans, whilst the new contract underpins the hierarchy’s backing too.
The Prague-born talent has the tools to cope with the pressure of becoming Tottenham’s first-choice goalkeeper, and our fans will hope De Zerbi’s decision to promote Kinsky is proven right.
