Seven Tottenham players face axe if Mauricio Pochettino takes over Antonio Conte
If Mauricio Pochettino returns to Tottenham, it is likely that many of the team’s top players will be let go this summer.
Antonio Conte, who has been unable to end the club’s trophy drought during his time as manager, is expected to depart when his contract expires at the end of the season.
Earlier this week, Tottenham was knocked out of the Champions League, losing 1-0 on aggregate to AC Milan.
Throughout both legs, Tottenham struggled to create opportunities, leading to criticism from fans and experts. Antonio Conte, the team’s current coach and former Chelsea manager, will be out of contract at the end of the season, and it’s unlikely that Tottenham will renew his contract, so there is a growing call for Mauricio Pochettino to return.
Pochettino, who is still beloved by Tottenham fans, has previously expressed his desire to return to the club.
However, if Pochettino were to return, he would face a daunting task because Tottenham’s squad is filled with players who are on the fringe and would struggle to make it into the starting lineup of other “Big Six” teams. As a result, it’s possible that seven players could be offloaded.
Davinson Sanchez
Tottenham has been facing a significant shortage of quality in their central defense, and unfortunately, Davinson Sanchez has not been able to provide that level of quality for the past few seasons.
Although the Colombian international has played 13 games in the league for Spurs this season, starting in six matches, his performances have failed to meet expectations, indicating that he should be let go.
Emerson Royal
Despite breaking back into Antonio Conte’s side, it could be the right time for Tottenham to cut their losses on Emerson Royal. With the arrival of Pedro Porro, it’s clear that the Brazilian is not seen as a long-term solution on the right. Moreover, keeping him on the team could hinder the development of Djed Spence when he returns. Therefore, it might be wise for Tottenham to consider letting Emerson Royal go.
Clement Lenglet
It’s highly unlikely that Tottenham will attempt to sign Clement Lenglet permanently, especially with the arrival of a new coach. Lenglet was brought in on loan as a “last resort” over the summer, and if Spurs were to make a permanent deal with Barcelona, it would suggest that they lack the confidence to pursue their top targets.
Therefore, it’s unlikely that Tottenham will pursue a permanent deal for Lenglet.
Giovani Lo Celso
Giovani Lo Celso’s injury issues have persisted while on loan at Villarreal, where he has only made nine league appearances for the club.
As a result, he could be another star that Mauricio Pochettino deems unfit for the team upon his return to Tottenham. In order to make progress, Tottenham will need a squad that is fully committed to the team’s vision, and it’s difficult to see how an injury-prone player like Lo Celso can contribute to that.
Sergio Reguilon
It’s expected that Sergio Reguilon will face difficulties in finding opportunities at Tottenham upon his return, particularly with the arrival of Destiny Udogie at the end of the season. Reguilon is currently on loan at Atletico Madrid, but he has not played much for the club.
A vote of confidence in a new environment could be helpful in getting the left-back’s career back on track, as well as helping Spurs secure a decent transfer fee.
Tanguy Ndombele
Despite being a naturally gifted player, Tanguy Ndombele’s low stamina levels and lack of pace could make it difficult for him to succeed in the Premier League.
The French international is currently on loan at Napoli and has a buyout clause worth £26 million in his contract.
The Serie A leaders may be tempted to activate the clause to secure depth in the center of the pitch.
Ivan Perisic
Ivan Perisic has failed to impress at Tottenham despite being a free transfer.
The Croatian international has not shown any signs of the form he displayed at his previous clubs, whether playing as a winger or wingback. Given that he is one of the highest-paid players at the club, it may be the right time to move on from the 34-year-old and free up his significant wages.
Seven Tottenham players face axe if Mauricio Pochettino takes over Antonio Conte
