Tottenham under pressure to strengthen

Thomas Frank addresses Eberechi Eze bid, squad needs, and late window plans ahead of the clash with Manchester City.

Tottenham focus on strengthening as Eze bid falls short

Thomas Frank faced a wave of questions about transfer links and squad health at his Friday press conference, ahead of Tottenham’s trip to Manchester City. He confirmed that Destiny is training with the squad but not ready for City, and he disclosed injuries to key players that limit his options. The discussion also touched on the failed Eberechi Eze move from Crystal Palace, a bid Spurs pursued that ultimately went to Arsenal; and the wider search for additions before the window closes. Frank stressed the club will only pursue players who genuinely want to wear the badge and contribute to the team.

He reiterated a clear recruitment philosophy, saying Tottenham will strengthen only if it makes the squad better. Richarlison remains a focal point, with Frank describing him as starting number nine and noting there have been no talks about selling him. The manager highlighted the need for creativity and depth, pointing to Kudus, Wilson, Tel, and a mix of attacking options as evidence of a varied threat. He expressed openness to further signings in all areas if the right players become available before the deadline.

Asked about the tactical plan for City, Frank said there is no single go-to system. He vowed bravery and emphasized control in early phases, while acknowledging City’s recent activity in the market and their reputation as a top side. Romero’s new contract was presented as a signal of commitment from both club and player, and Frank defended the club’s transfer efforts as a hard but necessary process, underscoring that results matter as much as intentions in this window.

The interview shows a manager who wants to balance ambitious talk with financial realism. Frank pushes a values based approach, insisting only players who want the badge will join, while also signaling a willingness to adapt tactically in pursuit of a result. That tension between aspiration and constraint reflects broader pressures at big clubs, where public expectations and a crowded market collide with the reality of a finite budget and competitive bids.

The Brentford style comparison comes up in how the club talks about recruitment and process. He mentions ongoing improvement in how the recruitment team understands his philosophy, while warning that perfection is unrealistic in eight weeks. In short, Tottenham is trying to project confidence without overpromising, hoping late-window moves will lift a squad that has endured injuries and transfer setbacks but remains capable of competing at top levels if new signings align with the plan.

Highlights

The transfer season may still move the needle for Tottenham, but the game this weekend will reveal how much the club has actually built toward meaningful immediate returns.