In a move that has sent shockwaves through the Tottenham Hotspur community, manager Thomas Frank has excluded midfielder Yves Bissouma from the squad set to face Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Super Cup. The decision stems from Bissouma's repeated tardiness during the pre-season, with Frank stating, "Bissouma has been late several times and now this time, it was one too many." (https://www.reuters.com/sports/soccer/lateness-costs-bissouma-place-spurs-super-cup-squad-solanke-fit-2025-08-12/?utm_source=openai" alt="https://www.reuters.com/sports/soccer/lateness-costs-bissouma-place-spurs-super-cup-squad-solanke-fit-2025-08-12/?utm_source=openai" target="_blank">reuters.com)
This isn't the first time Bissouma's off-field behaviour has raised eyebrows. In August 2024, he faced suspension after a video surfaced of him inhaling nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas. Former manager Ange Postecoglou addressed the incident, emphasizing the need for Bissouma to rebuild trust within the team. (https://www.football.london/tottenham-hotspur-fc/news/ange-postecoglou-reveals-yves-bissoumas-29743827?utm_source=openai" alt="https://www.football.london/tottenham-hotspur-fc/news/ange-postecoglou-reveals-yves-bissoumas-29743827?utm_source=openai" target="_blank">football.london)
The timing of Bissouma's latest disciplinary lapse couldn't be worse. With key players like James Maddison sidelined due to an ACL injury, and the departure of former captain Son Heung-min to LAFC, Tottenham's midfield options are already stretched thin. Frank's decision to drop Bissouma underscores a commitment to discipline and team cohesion, even at the expense of on-field strength. (https://www.reuters.com/sports/soccer/lateness-costs-bissouma-place-spurs-super-cup-squad-solanke-fit-2025-08-12/?utm_source=openai" alt="https://www.reuters.com/sports/soccer/lateness-costs-bissouma-place-spurs-super-cup-squad-solanke-fit-2025-08-12/?utm_source=openai" target="_blank">reuters.com)
Fans have expressed their frustration over Bissouma's actions. Social media platforms are abuzz with calls for the club to part ways with the midfielder, reflecting a growing sentiment that his repeated indiscretions are tarnishing the team's reputation. (https://www.footballinsider247.com/hes-finished-tottenham-fans-erupt-at-yves-bissouma-absence-ahead-of-psg/?utm_source=openai" alt="https://www.footballinsider247.com/hes-finished-tottenham-fans-erupt-at-yves-bissouma-absence-ahead-of-psg/?utm_source=openai" target="_blank">footballinsider247.com)
As Tottenham prepares for the high-stakes clash against PSG, the focus shifts to how the team will adapt without Bissouma. New signing João Palhinha, on loan from Bayern Munich, is poised to step into the midfield role. Frank remains optimistic, highlighting the team's well-managed pre-season and expressing confidence in their readiness for the challenge ahead. (https://www.reuters.com/sports/soccer/lateness-costs-bissouma-place-spurs-super-cup-squad-solanke-fit-2025-08-12/?utm_source=openai" alt="https://www.reuters.com/sports/soccer/lateness-costs-bissouma-place-spurs-super-cup-squad-solanke-fit-2025-08-12/?utm_source=openai" target="_blank">reuters.com)
This unfolding drama serves as a stark reminder of the delicate balance between talent and discipline in professional football. For Bissouma, the path to redemption is narrowing, and his future at Tottenham hangs in the balance.
