Tottenham striker Mathys Tel has admitted his frustration at being omitted from Thomas Frank’s Champions League squad but insists he remains committed to Spurs for now.
The 20-year-old, who joined permanently from Bayern Munich this summer after a six-month loan, was overlooked as Frank selected Richarlison, Dominic Solanke and deadline-day signing Randal Kolo Muani as his three strikers for Europe’s elite competition.
Speaking to Le Télégramme while on France U21 duty, Tel said the snub “definitely hurts” but played down talk of a revenge move away from north London.
Tel on “Seeking Revenge”
“It doesn’t matter, even if I were on the list, I would have had this desire — to seek revenge, to be effective this season, to be able to kick-start my season in the Premier League. Because this is the beginning of a long first season, since last year was on a six-month loan.” — Mathys Tel, via Le Télégramme
When asked about a potential January exit, Tel left the door open but stressed his focus remains on Spurs:
“A desire to go elsewhere? I’m under contract with Tottenham, so I’m a Tottenham player, and I’m going to do my best to simply play.” — Mathys Tel
Why Frank Left Him Out
Frank’s decision reflects his desire to balance experience and proven finishing power in Europe. Tel remains raw at 20, while Richarlison and Solanke offer physical presence and Kolo Muani arrived with Champions League pedigree.
Tel, however, has shown promise in the Premier League since arriving from Bayern, and Spurs’ decision to tie him down until 2031 suggests long-term faith.
Tel’s Spurs Numbers So Far
| Stat (Spurs, 2024/25–2025/26) | Mathys Tel |
|---|---|
| Appearances | — |
| Goals | — |
| Assists | — |
| Minutes | — |
source: club records – 6 September 2025
While his numbers remain modest, Tel is still at the start of his Spurs journey and sees the Premier League as the platform to prove himself.
Analyst Verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William:
Tel’s reaction is measured but telling. He wants more opportunities and has the hunger to succeed, but being left out of the Champions League squad will sting.
For Spurs, the risk is clear: if Frank doesn’t find a way to integrate him, bigger European clubs may circle, sensing frustration. Yet Tel’s contract to 2031 gives Tottenham leverage — it’s on Frank to prove he sees Tel as part of the long-term picture.
Key Insights
- Tel omitted from Spurs’ Champions League squad.
- Frank selected Richarlison, Solanke, Kolo Muani instead.
- Tel says he has “desire to seek revenge” by proving himself.
- Refused to rule out January move but insists he’s focused on Spurs.
- Contract runs until 2031, giving Tottenham control of his future.
What’s Next
Tel will look to channel his frustration into the Premier League campaign, where injuries could quickly open up chances. Spurs face a packed schedule domestically and in Europe, meaning squad depth will be tested.
If opportunities remain limited by January, questions over his long-term future will grow louder, especially with ambitious clubs across Europe monitoring his situation.
Should Thomas Frank have trusted Mathys Tel in the Champions League — or was leaving him out the right call?
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