Richarlison and the £30m enigma – Spurs players who have point to prove in 2025-26
Tottenham are primed to enter a new era under Thomas Frank and distance themselves from last season’s woes.
While they lifted the Europa League trophy, the Lilywhites’ dreadful Premier League form led to Ange Postecoglou losing his job.
Given the number of injuries and underperforming players, it is tough to point fingers at individuals.
However, Richarlison and several other players have a point to prove at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Richarlison in last chance Spurs saloon
Richarlison’s Tottenham future is in doubt as he prepares to enter his fourth season in North London.
Much was expected of the Brazilian who lit up Goodison Park, but he has been unable to translate his form to Spurs.
In three seasons, the forward has bagged 20 goals in 90 appearances, with his highest Premier League tally being 11.
| Season | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
| 2022/23 | 27 | 1 | 4 |
| 2023/24 | 28 | 11 | 4 |
| 2024/25 | 15 | 4 | 1 |
Last term, the 28-year-old netted four league goals in 15 appearances, but has struggled to nail down a starting berth.
If he remains a Tottenham player, then Richarlison will have to show Frank why he warrants a place in his team.
Yves Bissouma must show Tottenham why they signed him
Bissouma is one of the likeliest Spurs players to leave this summer, but so far, nothing has materialised.
It has been reported that the Mali international wants to stay at the London club, while he prefers a Premier League transfer should he move on.
The midfielder was poor in the Premier League last season and has not lived up to the hype he garnered at Brighton.
Tottenham have been linked with a move for Joao Palhinha, and his signing could spell the end for Bissouma, who is said to have cost Spurs a fee of £3omillion.
However, the Lilywhites are yet to secure new signings in the hub of midfield, meaning he could be given another chance.
Guglielmo Vicario must return to first-season form
When Vicario arrived in North London, it seemed that Spurs had nailed down a long-term number one.
In his first season, the Italian was imperious and commanding, while demonstrating an excellent shot-stopping ability.
However, last term, he looked shaky and lacking in confidence as he was exposed to deliveries into the box.
Of course, the 28-year-old missed a substantial chunk of last season, meaning it would be unfair to discard him.
Vicario is set to start the Premier League season as number one and will need to produce some top performances in the early fixtures to convince Frank.
Tottenham have a new boss with fresh ideas, but this is an unpredictable time for the Lilywhites.
Will Frank offer new opportunities to Spurs’ current crop? Or will he put his faith in others?
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