Mathys Tel faces growing pressure at Tottenham as Roberto De Zerbi sends clear message
Mathys Tel is coming under increasing pressure at Tottenham Hotspur following a difficult start to the 2026/27 Premier League campaign.
The French forward started Tottenham’s latest league match against Nottingham Forest but was replaced by Mykhailo Mudryk as Roberto De Zerbi searched for a spark in attack. Spurs eventually settled for a goalless draw, extending their wait for a first Premier League goal of the season.
De Zerbi has continued to back Tel’s potential but acknowledged that the youngster needs to improve his decision-making.
The Tottenham boss described Tel as a player with “big potential” while pointing out that he has been making too many wrong decisions in attacking situations.
That assessment comes at a difficult time for Spurs, who have struggled badly in the final third despite spending more than £300 million during the summer transfer window. Tottenham failed to register a shot on target against Forest, highlighting the extent of their attacking problems.
With competition now increasing following the arrival of Mudryk, Tel will need to respond quickly and convince De Zerbi that he deserves to remain a regular starter.
For Tottenham, the hope is that the 21-year-old can turn his potential into consistent end product as the season progresses.
