Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou expressed strong confidence that Mathys Tel will extend his stay with the club beyond his initial loan period, emphasizing that he did not “bring him here for six months”. The 19-year-old forward was secured on a temporary basis from Bayern Munich, with a £45 million option to make the transfer permanent following a dramatic change of heart after previously rejecting the move just days earlier.
If Spurs activate the option to make Tel’s transfer permanent, he will be offered a six-year contract. Postecoglou is optimistic about this outcome. “He will be a significant player for us as the season progresses and beyond,” he stated ahead of the Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Liverpool. “He wants to make an impact, and I expect him to do just that.”
Postecoglou highlighted Tel’s potential impact, insisting, “He will be a Tottenham player, and he will demonstrate that over the next six months.”
### Ange Postecoglou Discusses Recruitment Strategy
Addressing Tel’s initial hesitation to join the club, Postecoglou revealed that a lengthy conversation about his role helped shift the player’s perspective. He downplayed his persuasive abilities, focusing instead on the clarity and conviction of the project at Tottenham that led Tel to change his mind.
“In conversations with players, I aim for honesty and integrity,” Postecoglou remarked. “I believe in the narrative I’m sharing, supported by substantial evidence of our success. It’s about authenticity, not salesmanship.”
### Tel’s Debut Anticipated Against Liverpool
Both Mathys Tel and new signing Kevin Danso are set to be available for selection against Liverpool, while Micky van de Ven will be rested as a precaution following prior injuries. After recently returning from a thigh injury, Cristian Romero will also be sidelined for this match.
“Mathys and Kevin are both ready to play,” Postecoglou confirmed, signaling a potential debut for Tel in a crucial fixture.
### Strategic Versatility in Attack
As the team grapples with a host of injuries, Tel brings much-needed versatility. Postecoglou indicated that the young forward could play various roles, including as a striker or on the wing, helping to compensate for the absence of key players like Dominic Solanke and Brennan Johnson.
“Mathys has the tools to perform as a central striker and has also excelled in wide positions,” Postecoglou said. “Given our current situation, we’ll likely need him to fill multiple roles up front.”
With a significant number of first-team players unavailable, Tel’s presence is expected to be crucial for Tottenham in the weeks ahead.
