The move was supposed to be the next big step in his career, but Mathys Tel’s Premier League adventure is increasingly turning into a test of patience. The former FC Bayern attacking jewel has suffered a bitter setback at Tottenham Hotspur, further exacerbating his sporting situation in north London
In the summer of 2025 , Munich sold Tel to Spurs for around €35 million. The 20-year-old had previously been loaned out for six months to get used to the English league. Hopes were high that Tel would take the next step at Tottenham, gain more playing time and establish himself at the highest level. But that has not happened so far
For long stretches of the current season, the Frenchman has found himself on the bench – in a team that is struggling with major problems of its own. Tottenham are going through a difficult phase in sporting terms, and expectations of young players like Tel are high. Although the former Bayern professional was recently allowed to start three games in a row in the Premier League for the first time, he was only able to make limited use of this opportunity. His goal in the 3-2 draw against Bournemouth did little to change the fact that his performances lacked impact overall
Now comes the next setback: as the Guardian reports, Tottenham coach Frank has decided not to nominate Tel for the Champions League squad for the second half of the season. A decision with symbolic power. Tel had already been nominated as a stopgap in the league phase when regular striker Dominic Solanke was out injured at short notice. Even then, the Frenchman hardly played a role and only came on once for just over 30 minutes in six games
Signs point to separation
The fact that Tel is now completely sidelined is a clear signal. Internally, this is seen as an indication that the attacking player is currently not playing a major role in Spurs‘ sporting plans. According to media reports, Tel has already asked his club for a new loan in order to get more match practice elsewhere. With the decision against a Champions League nomination at the latest, it seems clear that his prospects in London are limited
The situation for Tottenham is quite open. In the top flight, Spurs are eleventh in the table after three wins, two draws and one defeat. The play-offs are considered almost certain, and even a direct place in the last 16 is still possible. It is therefore all the more remarkable that Tel is not expected to play a role at this stage. In the Premier League, on the other hand, the club is languishing in 14th place and has not won in four games. Most recently, they suffered two defeats in a row – both times Tel was on the pitch
This is a bitter development for the former Bayern player. In Munich, he was long regarded as one of the greatest attacking talents, was repeatedly given opportunities despite tough competition and gained valuable experience at top international level. The move to England was intended to build on this. Instead, Tel is now in danger of losing his place in a team that is struggling in sporting terms
A loan could open up new prospects in the short term, but the situation raises questions in the long term. One thing is clear: the move away from FC Bayern has not paid off so far. For Mathys Tel, it is a painful but perhaps also instructive blow – one that could have a significant impact on his future career.