Tottenham Hotspur's preparations for a crucial Champions League clash have been overshadowed by fresh squad turmoil, with forward Mathys Tel dropped from the European roster.
The French international, who only joined Spurs permanently from Bayern Munich seven months ago in a £30 million deal, will play no part in the final two league phase games against Borussia Dortmund and Eintracht Frankfurt.
Tel's Champions League Omission and Frustration
This marks the second time this season Tel has been excluded from the Champions League squad. He was initially left out in September before being reinstated following an injury to Dominic Solanke.
With Solanke now fit again, he has reclaimed his place, prompting the decision to omit Tel. The move coincides with widespread reports that the 20-year-old is actively pushing for a loan departure from the club this January.
Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano has stated that Tel and his representatives are "not happy at all with the decision", compounding existing frustrations over his limited playing time and being deployed out of his preferred central striking role.
Paris FC Emerge as Loan Suitors
Despite being axed from the European squad, Tottenham are reportedly resisting a departure. According to Sky Sports reporter Florian Plettenburg, Paris FC have emerged as leading candidates to offer Tel an escape route on loan.
Their key promise is to utilise him as a number nine, directly addressing the core of his discontent in North London. However, Spurs are said to be blocking enquiries for now, keen to retain a player whose contract runs until 2031.
The situation adds to a turbulent period for the club, coming off the back of a painful 2-1 home defeat to West Ham United last Saturday which has increased scrutiny on manager Thomas Frank.
Pressure Mounts on Frank Ahead of Dortmund Clash
Manager Thomas Frank remains under significant pressure but is expected to be in the dugout for Tuesday night's pivotal Champions League meeting with Borussia Dortmund at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Tel's demotion and desire to leave is another headache for the Danish coach, who has seen the forward score just three goals this season, the last coming in a 3-2 loss to AFC Bournemouth.
The club's decision on Tel's immediate future is now a key subplot to their European campaign and a tense period in the Premier League, with internal talks regarding Frank's position also reported to be ongoing.
