Has Thomas Frank had a fallout with a Tottenham Hotspur player? – Journalist shares his thoughts

Journalist dismisses talk of any issues between Thomas Frank and Pape Matar Sarr at Tottenham Hotspur

Several Tottenham players failed to impress in their 0-0 Champions League draw against AS Monaco on Wednesday, with Guglielmo Vicario’s superb goalkeeping ensuring Spurs escaped with a point.

After being second best for much of the game, Thomas Frank made several substitutions in the second half, including the introduction of Pape Matar Sarr, who helped stabilize the midfield. Despite his contribution, Vicario deserved most of the credit for securing the result.

Sarr’s limited playing time in recent weeks has puzzled many fans, especially after his strong start to the season. With injuries to creative players James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski, Frank has alternated between using Sarr and Lucas Bergvall in the No.10 role ahead of Joao Palhinha and Rodrigo Bentancur. The Senegal international has performed well in the advanced position when called upon.

After featuring for 90 minutes in three of the first four league matches, Sarr has since been benched, with Bergvall preferred in recent games. Even after a dip in the Swede’s form, Frank has continued to start him, prompting speculation of a possible rift between the manager and Sarr.

According to TBR Football’s chief correspondent Graeme Bailey, however, there has been no fallout between the two. Sarr’s reduced involvement is simply due to Frank’s ongoing efforts to determine his best starting lineup.

“Tottenham insist there are no issues with Sarr; he remains an important member of the squad,” Bailey told TBR Football. “Frank is still evaluating his options, but Sarr is very much part of his plans. Palhinha and Bentancur are key players, yet Frank has emphasized the importance of the entire squad, and Sarr is included in that.”

Sarr continues to develop under Frank’s management. While not a natural creator, his energy, pressing, and tenacity make him valuable in midfield — qualities that have earned him the manager’s admiration.

Praised by pundit Jamie O’Hara as a “massive hit” signing, the 23-year-old is expected to receive more opportunities as the season unfolds. With his contract running until July 2030, he has time to cement his place in the team and reach his potential at Spurs.

However, Sarr will miss several games in mid-December when he joins Senegal for the Africa Cup of Nations.