Tensions are rising within Tottenham Hotspur after head coach Thomas Frank once again left Mathys Tel out of the club’s UEFA Champions League squad list, a decision that has reportedly upset the young forward and his representatives.
According to reports credited to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the exclusion has intensified internal pressure at the North London club, with frustration growing around Frank’s handling of his attacking options.
This is the second time Tel has been omitted from Tottenham’s Champions League squad under Frank, a move that has not gone down well in the player’s camp.
The decision was driven largely by UEFA squad registration rules, which forced Tottenham to remove a player in order to accommodate the registration of new signing Dominic Solanke.
Frank ultimately opted to unlist Tel to make room for Solanke, whose inclusion has been fast-tracked ahead of the knockout stages of the competition.
The call has surprised many observers, given Tel’s reputation as one of Europe’s most promising young attacking talents.
At just 20 years old, the French forward is widely regarded as a player with significant long-term potential, and his omission has raised questions about Tottenham’s development strategy.
Frank is understood to believe that Solanke’s physical presence, Premier League experience, and immediate readiness make him better suited to the demands of Champions League knockout football.
The Tottenham manager sees Solanke as a key figure for the club’s European ambitions, particularly as Spurs look to salvage their season on the continental stage.
However, the decision has reportedly left Tel and his representatives deeply unhappy, especially in light of the assurances made to the player when he joined the club.
Tel is said to be frustrated by his lack of opportunities, despite delivering impressive performances in limited minutes when called upon.
The situation has been further complicated by growing interest in the French forward from other European clubs, who are monitoring his situation closely.
Sources suggest that Tel is keen to play regularly in major competitions, and continued exclusion from key squad lists could force him to reassess his future at Tottenham.
There is increasing concern within the club that the handling of the situation could push the player towards considering a move away from North London.
Frank’s squad management has already been a source of criticism during a season that has been marked by inconsistency and underwhelming performances.
Tottenham have struggled to find rhythm in the Premier League, with results leaving them positioned uncomfortably low in the table.
Fans have voiced frustration over what they see as mixed messages from the manager, questionable team selections, and the stalled progress of several young players.
The omission of Tel has added to that discontent, particularly among supporters who view the forward as a key part of the club’s future.
Critics argue that repeated exclusions from high-profile competitions risk undermining the confidence and development of young talents.
The situation also places additional scrutiny on Frank, whose tactical approach and long-term vision have come under increasing examination.
With crucial Champions League fixtures approaching, Tottenham are under pressure to deliver results and restore belief both on and off the pitch.
Frank’s decision to prioritize Solanke over Tel will be closely watched, especially if Spurs fail to progress deep into the competition.
Should results not improve, the controversy surrounding Tel’s exclusion could become a wider symbol of the club’s struggles this season.
Reports have already suggested that Tottenham’s hierarchy may be assessing potential managerial alternatives amid growing dissatisfaction.
For now, the focus remains on whether Frank’s gamble will pay off and whether relationships within the squad can be repaired.
Tel’s future at Tottenham appears increasingly uncertain, with his next steps likely to depend on whether he is reintegrated into the club’s long-term plans.
As the season reaches a critical phase, Tottenham face mounting pressure to steady their campaign and address internal tensions that threaten to derail their ambitions.
