Tottenham’s situation with Richarlison has worsened, as manager Roberto De Zerbi confirms the Brazilian will not be considered for any matches, including cup fixtures.
The 29‑year‑old was omitted from Spurs’ 25‑man Premier League roster earlier this month after a summer during which he actively sought a transfer away.
Although he remains eligible for the Carabao Cup, De Zerbi has closed the door on any temporary recall.
De Zerbi Clarifies His Stance on Richarlison
Ahead of Tottenham’s Carabao Cup clash with Liverpool, De Zerbi was unequivocal when questioned about Richarlison’s potential involvement.
He stated, according to Fabrizio Romano:
“Richarlison will NOT play even if he’s available. Not even in the Carabao Cup, no”.
This stance is particularly notable given Tottenham’s goal drought; the side has not scored in its opening four Premier League fixtures, marking the club’s longest goalless streak to begin a league season.
The move is surprising given that Richarlison finished as Spurs’ top Premier League scorer last season.
Earlier this month, The Guardian reported that the forward turned down a new contract and repeatedly expressed his desire to depart, leading De Zerbi to pursue alternative attacking options.
Richarlison remains under contract and is formally eligible for domestic cup matches, yet the manager has made it clear he will not be deployed while the disagreement persists.
Assessing Tottenham’s Approach to the Richarlison Situation
From De Zerbi’s perspective, the decision is logical; bringing back a player who has signalled his intention to leave purely to address poor form could erode his authority.
Nevertheless, Tottenham’s lack of goals makes this position difficult to overlook.
Richarlison has amassed 32 goals and 15 assists in over 130 appearances for Spurs, and he led the team in scoring last season with 12 league goals.
Even if his long‑term future is elsewhere, those statistics indicate he could still contribute to a side currently in dire need of goals.
De Zerbi is instead turning to Dominic Solanke, Omar Marmoush, Savio, Mohammed Kudus and Mathys Tel.
That is a promising quartet, yet four consecutive league matches without a goal increase the pressure on the entire squad.
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