Tottenham player under investigation for alleged nitrous oxide use
The Mali international, Yves Bissouma, has reportedly been filmed using a nitrous oxide balloon for the second time in his Tottenham career.
A club spokesperson told PA: “We are looking into the events and it will be dealt with as an internal matter.”
Bissouma had previously received a one-game ban from Tottenham at the start of last season, which caused him to miss the 1-1 draw with Leicester City. This followed a video he had posted on his own social media showing him using the same substance. After that incident, Bissouma apologised, stating: “This was a severe lack of judgment. I understand how serious this is and the health risks involved. I also take my responsibilities as a footballer and a role model very seriously.”
Nitrous oxide was classified as a Class C drug in 2023 under the UK government’s anti-social behaviour action plan, and possession for recreational use is an offence.
Despite these issues, Bissouma played a crucial role in Tottenham’s Europa League final victory at the end of the campaign. He recorded four tackles, two interceptions, six clearances, and blocked a shot, helping secure the first major trophy of his career.
However, new manager Thomas Frank, who replaced Ange Postecoglou after the Bilbao triumph, left Bissouma out of Tottenham’s UEFA Super Cup defeat to Paris Saint-Germain. Spurs lost on penalties in Udine after surrendering a two-goal lead in the final minutes of regular time. Bissouma had been unavailable due to being late for training on multiple occasions during pre-season.
Frank explained: “Bissouma has not travelled with the team because of disciplinary reasons. He has been late several times and the latest time was one too many. There has to be consequences for these actions, and this time there was. I will follow up when I return, but for now, there is an important game tomorrow.”
Bissouma’s season has also been disrupted by a series of injuries, including one sustained while on international duty with Mali.
