Squad Breakdown
The squad list for the Europa League includes 23 players, out of a possible 25 spots. The squad features goalkeepers Guglielmo Vicario, Fraser Forster, Brandon Austin, and Alfie Whiteman. In defense, Tottenham will rely on Radu Dragusin, Destiny Udogie, Cristian Romero, Pedro Porro, Ben Davies, and Micky van de Ven. The midfield consists of Son Heung-Min, Yves Bissouma, James Maddison, Archie Gray, Lucas Bergvall, Dejan Kulusevski, Brennan Johnson, Wilson Odobert, Pape Sarr, and Rodrigo Bentancur. Forwards include Richarlison, Timo Werner, and Dominic Solanke.
Interestingly, the squad includes four goalkeepers, which exceeds the required number and highlights a significant omission: Djed Spence, who was expected to be part of the team.
Surprising Decisions
The decision to include a fourth goalkeeper, Fraser Forster, while omitting a fullback like Spence, seems puzzling. This move suggests that Tottenham may face challenges in the fullback positions, relying more on Ben Davies and Archie Gray. The reasoning behind this choice remains unclear, as UEFA’s squad regulations can be complex and difficult to navigate.
Spence’s exclusion might also impact the team’s depth and flexibility, particularly in defense. With the need to balance squad numbers, Tottenham’s decision to include additional goalkeepers over a potential fullback highlights strategic priorities that might not align with all fans’ expectations.
Future Considerations
While this decision may seem unusual, it could be influenced by factors such as the club’s longer-term planning and squad development. As younger players like Gray and Bergvall integrate into the squad, future adjustments might address current imbalances. However, for now, Tottenham’s strategy reflects a preference for additional goalkeeper coverage, even if it comes at the expense of having a more versatile defensive option.
Overall, Tottenham Hotspur’s Europa League squad for the upcoming season has certainly generated discussion, particularly around the surprising exclusion of Djed Spence.
