Will Damola Ajayi be in Tottenham's first-team squad for the 2026-27 season?

Damola Ajayi could be a first-team option for Tottenham Hotspur this season.

The 20-year-old forward was included in Tottenham's pre-season squad of the tour of New Zealand and Australia, however, he did not get a single minute.

It would have been a disappointing outcome for the youth prospect, but his chance has finally arrive.

As Tottenham prepare for the upcoming season, manager Roberto De Zerbi has made a decision that may hint towards Ajayi's involvement.

Behind closed doors, Spurs' second XI went up against the under-21s on Saturday, 8 August.

And Ajayi was front and centre in the action, with his inclusion in one of the squads highlighting his potential future involvement.

What did Damola Ajayi achieve in Tottenham friendly?

Tottenham took on Getafe in a friendly on Saturday as they look to build up fitness.

It was just a 70-minute match, which ended 1-1 as Conor Gallagher scored the only goal for Spurs.

However, for those who did not get a run out, they had the chance to do so on the same day

As stated a friendly between the second-string of first-teamers and the under-21s took place, with Ajayi actually representing the first-team squad.

And the young Englishman took his chance to impress expertly, as he found the net with the senior side winning 2-1.

Pape Matar Sarr was the other goalscorer, with Tyreese Hall scoring for the under-21s.

Why Ajayi involvement could be hint to future

It would have been very easy for Tottenham to have just included Ajayi in the under-21s squad but the fact he participated with the first-team speaks volumes.

Spurs are short on wide options and with Manor Solomon set to seal an exit to West Ham, there is a space for a winger to step into.

Wilson Odobert is also expected to be out for the first few months of the season as he recovers from injury.

While it also remains to be seen what Yang Min-hyeok's involvement is.

As things stand, Mohammed Kudus is the only natural right-winger in De Zerbi's squad and that could see Ajayi get his chance this season.

Especially with concerns over Kudus' lack of pre-season involvement so far.

The potential chances for Ajayi will more than likely arrive in the cup games this season, as he continues to try and push for Premier League involvement.

Nonetheless, the route does look open for Ajayi to break his way into De Zerbi's plans.