Thomas Frank Must Show Ruthlessness and Drop the Tottenham Star Who Struggled Badly Against Monaco
It hasn’t taken long for problems to surface at Tottenham under new manager Thomas Frank, as the Lilywhites were held to a goalless draw against Monaco in the Champions League on Wednesday night. What once looked like the start of a bright new chapter in north London has, in recent weeks, begun to resemble the struggles of previous seasons.
Daniel Levy’s exit over the summer appeared to mark a new beginning, and optimism was high following several high-profile signings. Xavi Simons rejected interest from Chelsea to join the club, while Mohammed Kudus also arrived to strengthen the squad.
Tottenham’s 2025/26 Summer Signings
Player Signed From Price
Xavi Simons Bayern Munich £56.4m
Mohammed Kudus West Ham £55.4m
Mathys Tel Bayern Munich £30m
Kevin Danso RC Lens £21.7m
Luka Vuskovic Hajduk Split £9.5m
Kota Takai Kawasaki Front £4.3m
Joao Palhinha Bayern Munich Loan
Randal Kolo Muani PSG Loan
Early performances, including impressive away wins over Manchester City (2-0) and West Ham (3-0), suggested that something special was taking shape. However, recent results have served as a reality check, underlining that Tottenham’s rebuilding process is far from complete.
Home defeats to Bournemouth and Aston Villa, in which Spurs managed just one goal across three hours of football, first raised concerns. And after another uninspired display in Monaco, where clear chances were scarce, pressure is mounting on Frank to rethink his attacking setup – with many calling for Richarlison to be dropped following his disappointing midweek showing.
Supporters voiced their frustration after the game, with one comment reading, “Sell Richarlison ASAP.” Another added, “Richarlison should be told tonight he can go for free – just get him out of the club.” A fourth fan went even further: “Richarlison shouldn’t get another minute this season; it’s like playing with 10 men. Drop him and sell him in January.”
For Frank, the lack of alternatives in attack presents a concern. Dominic Solanke, who would normally provide competition, is currently sidelined after ankle surgery, leaving Randal Kolo Muani as the only realistic option.
The PSG loanee offers European experience and energy in the final third. While not the most prolific forward, many believe it’s time he is given the opportunity to lead the line as Tottenham await the January window to reassess their striker options.
