Richarlison starts for Spurs against Burnley

Thomas Frank weighs selection choices as Spurs prepare for Burnley after a strong showing against PSG in the Super Cup final

Thomas Frank names Richarlison Tottenham's undroppable ahead of Burnley clash

Tottenham's 2025/26 season opened with a UEFA Super Cup final against PSG in Udine. Spurs led 2-0 through goals from Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero, but Paris Saint-Germain fought back late to force penalties. PSG edged Tottenham on penalties, with Nuno Mendes converting the decisive kick after Tottenham missed from Van de Ven and Mathys Tel.

Richarlison started in a front two with Kudus, while Solanke was introduced in the 72nd minute to rotate the attack after returning from injury. Richarlison’s hold‑up play and relentless running repeatedly troubled PSG, and his absence in the final minutes was felt as the visitors pressed for an equaliser. Tottenham’s performance showed the kind of balance Frank is weighing as he prepares to face Burnley, including whether to keep the same frontline or adjust the system for the league opener.

Frank highlighted the positives from a display that kept one of the world’s best teams on the back foot for most of the match. The standout moment is not just the result but the way Richarlison operated as the focal point of the attack, offering a reminder of why fans have clamoured for a consistent starting role. The tactical question now centers on formation: should Spurs keep a front two with Richarlison and Solanke or switch to a 4-2-3-1 with an extra creative midfielder to feed Kudus and the supporting cast?

Beyond personnel, the fixture list will test Spurs' depth early. Richarlison’s fitness history complicates long-term planning, but his performance against PSG provides a strong case for him to start at home to Burnley. The early momentum matters, and Frank’s choice could shape not just the opening result but the mood around the squad as they chase a steadier passage through a busy month of games.

Highlights

The season has just begun, and Tottenham’s next move will reveal how quickly they translate promise into consistent results.