Tottenham supporters hoping to see Randal Kolo Muani handed his first start for the club will have to wait a little longer. The French striker, who joined Spurs on loan from Paris Saint-Germain this summer, has been ruled out of Wednesday’s League Cup third-round clash with Doncaster Rovers after picking up a knock.
Kolo Muani has so far featured just once in a Spurs shirt — a substitute appearance in the 1-0 Europa League win over Villarreal earlier this month. He was already unavailable for the 2-2 Premier League draw with Brighton due to a dead leg, and head coach Thomas Frank confirmed that a quick turnaround has prevented his involvement this week.
Thomas Frank confirms injury setback
Speaking to the media ahead of the cup tie, Frank grouped Kolo Muani’s situation with that of defender Ben Davies, who will also miss out after suffering a knee issue in training.
“Minor injuries both of them. It’s just too short a turnaround unfortunately.” — Thomas Frank
While the Danish coach was quick to stress the injuries are not serious, the update is nevertheless a frustration for Spurs, who are eager to integrate their new loan signing into the first-team setup.
Kulusevski recovery still ongoing
In more significant injury news, Dejan Kulusevski remains unavailable after the serious knee injury he sustained late last season. The 25-year-old Swedish international has yet to feature under Frank but continues his rehabilitation in the gym.
Frank made clear his admiration for the winger and his importance to the squad.
“Of course Kulusevski is a top player, I always liked him when I saw him from afar. He is a key player for us, a key player for me. Instead of putting an exact month, I just want him back as soon as possible. The medical guys and Kulusevski are working very hard on that. It’s not tomorrow but hopefully not too far away.” — Thomas Frank
Asked whether Kulusevski could return before the end of 2025, Frank was cautiously optimistic: “Yes, there’s a good chance for that.”
Tottenham injury table (September 2025)
| Player | Injury | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Randal Kolo Muani | Minor knock | Ruled out vs Doncaster |
| Ben Davies | Knee | Ruled out vs Doncaster |
| Dejan Kulusevski | Knee (long-term) | Back before end of year |
source: Tottenham medical staff update – 23 September 2025
The injuries underline the need for squad depth as Spurs juggle league, European, and domestic cup competitions.
Analyst verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William believes Spurs must tread carefully. “Kolo Muani needs minutes to build chemistry with his teammates, but rushing him back could cause setbacks. Frank’s caution is sensible. As for Kulusevski, his eventual return will feel like a new signing — his creativity and work rate are irreplaceable.”
Key insights
- Kolo Muani still waiting for first Tottenham start after Villarreal cameo.
- Frank confirms minor injury rules him out of Doncaster tie.
- Ben Davies also sidelined with a knee problem.
- Kulusevski recovery ongoing, but expected to feature before year’s end.
- Spurs balancing Europa League, Premier League, and domestic cups amid injury challenges.
What’s next for Spurs?
Spurs face Doncaster Rovers on Wednesday night in the League Cup before resuming Premier League action at the weekend. Frank will rotate his squad, with opportunities likely for fringe and academy players.
For Kolo Muani, the target will be fitness in time for Tottenham’s next Champions League fixture, where his pace and movement could be invaluable. Kulusevski’s return before the new year would provide a huge boost as Spurs chase success on multiple fronts.
👉 Do you think Randal Kolo Muani will establish himself as a starter once fit, or will injuries derail his Tottenham loan spell?
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