(Credit: Imago)
(Credit: Imago)

Tottenham blamed for 'inexplicable' Bryan Gil mistake during Antonio Conte tenure

Alex Charlton

Alex is a lifelong Sunderland supporter who's been reporting on Mackem News since April 2025. Indeed, he started working for Breaking Media in April and has since graduated from St Mary's University as a NCTJ Gold Standard-accredited journalist, having completed his Master's degree in Sports Journalism. Alex previously worked for Football League World and has featured on the Roker Report, providing his opinion on all things Sunderland. While getting to the games is tricky, given his job, one of the highlights of his life was watching (and crying) as the Black Cats defeated Sheffield United at Wembley Stadium last season.

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Antonio Conte arrived at Tottenham tasked with delivering a long-awaited trophy in North London.

After his departure, Conte was blamed for creating hurdles for Spurs players, with Djed Spence speaking openly about his frustrations.

Another player who struggled under Conte was Bryan Gil, who was never really afforded a credible opportunity.

Indeed, it could have been very different for Gil if not for a significant decision made during the Italian's tenure.

Tottenham star Bryan Gil looking sad.
Gil struggled to make an impact in England (Credit: Imago)

This article includes exclusive comments from Lilywhite Rose owner John Wenham.

Tottenham blamed for Bryan Gil transfer decision

Gil was linked with a Spurs exit all summer, but finally secured a permanent switch to La Liga side Girona.

Ironically, the 24-year-old was one of Tottenham's longest-serving players before he secured a move this summer.

Now, Lilywhite Rose owner John Wenham - speaking exclusively to Tottenham News - has criticised the North London club for their handling of the Spaniard.

  • Gil made 43 appearances in four years
  • He never scored a goal for the Lilywhites
  • The winger bagged one Premier League assist

“I think there were learning curves throughout his time at the club,” Wenham said.

“I remember him starting at Palace away and we won 4-0, and he got an assist, and it finally, after about two and a half years, this was under Antonio Conte, seemed like he had a bit of confidence, and we were onto something there.

"And it was inexplicable that he was loaned out again. So there's been mistakes by the club, no mistake about that.”

Bryan Gill claps in a Tottenham shirt
The winger has played his last game for the Lilywhites (Credit: Imago)

Should Bryan Gil have been given more of a chance at Spurs?

When Gil arrived in North London, there was reason to be optimistic about the budding Spanish talent.

While his numbers were never outstanding, his directness and flair made him a thrilling prospect on the left.

After finding opportunities sparse, his initial loan to Valencia was probably he right call, although he only made 13 league appearances.

Although he bagged his first assist in the 2022/23 season, he only featured for two minutes in the following game before being left out of the squad entirely.

Of course, there was always the hurdle of Son Heung-min, meaning that whoever was behind in the pecking order was up against it for minutes.

However, the cup competitions should have provided him with more of an opportunity to build some confidence.

While his transfer will be deemed a failure, Gil could have been treated better in North London.

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