Full Breakdown
Tottenham Hotspur’s Squad Turmoil: Player Exclusions and Departures
By Drooid · · How we work
Background & Context
Tottenham entered the 2026-27 season after back-to-back 17th-place finishes and a £332 million summer overhaul. The team has failed to score in its first four Premier League matches, intensifying scrutiny of manager Roberto De Zerbi’s recruitment and tactics. Two high-profile players—midfielder Yves Bissouma and striker Richarlison—are now separated from the squad under contentious circumstances.
Key Figures
- Roberto De Zerbi – Tottenham manager.
- Yves Bissouma – 30-year-old Mali international defensive midfielder, released in June after 111 appearances.
- Richarlison – 29-year-old Brazil international striker, in the final year of his contract and omitted from the Premier League squad.
Timeline
- June (previous season) – Bissouma’s contract expires; he leaves as a free agent.
- Summer transfer window – Richarlison requests a move and is excluded from the Premier League squad.
- Early 2026-27 season – Tottenham begin with four goalless league matches.
- Recent weeks – Bissouma signs a one-year deal with Ajax, with an option for a second year.
- Carabao Cup third round – Tottenham face Liverpool; Richarlison remains eligible for the cup but is not selected.
Data & Statistics
- Bissouma made 11 Premier League appearances in his final Tottenham season.
- Richarlison is not registered for the Premier League this season, though his contract runs for 12 months with a club option for an additional year.
- Tottenham have recorded zero goals and two points from their opening four fixtures.
Official Statements & Responses
De Zerbi said he can comment only on results, the players in the squad, and the defensive phase, not on individual contract matters. He added, “If he says no, then thank you, I’m finished with my job.”
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Premier League Rule U.1.1 indicates a contracted, FA-registered player remains eligible for cup competitions, meaning Richarlison could play in the Carabao Cup. De Zerbi’s decision to omit him creates a discrepancy between formal eligibility and managerial discretion. No club statement has clarified whether the choice is tactical or linked to the contract dispute.
Verbatim Quote
- “If he says no, then thank you, I’m finished with my job.” — Roberto De Zerbi
What’s Next
- Carabao Cup third round – Tottenham meet Liverpool; Richarlison’s involvement remains uncertain.
- Bissouma’s Ajax debut – He is expected to feature in upcoming Eredivisie and UEFA Conference League matches.
- Transfer window activity – With the squad underperforming, further movements may be considered before the January deadline.