Tottenham Hotspur are facing some unexpected concerns behind the scenes, particularly regarding the form and development of young goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky.
The 22-year-old Czech shot-stopper, once tipped to be a long-term option for the club, is reportedly struggling to maintain the standards that initially impressed the coaching staff. His recent performances in training have sparked internal discussions, with reports suggesting his progress has slowed significantly since joining the club.
Kinsky’s story at Spurs began with plenty of promise. After arriving in North London, he quickly made an impression and was given opportunities under former manager Ange Postecoglou when first-choice goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario was sidelined with a long-term injury.
During that spell, the Czech youngster showcased confidence and maturity beyond his years, producing a string of solid performances including a memorable debut in the Carabao Cup semi-final win over Liverpool.
His shot-stopping ability and calm presence under pressure earned him praise and the belief that Tottenham had found a capable future No.1.
However, according to BBC Sport’s Sami Mokbel, that early momentum has faded. Since Vicario’s return to full fitness, Kinsky has reportedly struggled to maintain the same intensity and focus that once set him apart.
His performances in training have dipped, raising eyebrows among the coaching staff. The 22-year-old has made just one appearance so far this season, again in the Carabao Cup, and has found himself firmly behind Vicario in the pecking order.
The situation has become more complicated as Vicario himself has come under fire this season. Despite starting well under new boss Thomas Frank, the Italian goalkeeper has been criticised for lapses in concentration and questions about his command of the penalty area.
His error against Leeds United, which led to a goal, only intensified scrutiny, even though Spurs went on to win the match and climb into third place in the Premier League table.
Such inconsistencies have led to speculation that Tottenham might look for reinforcements in the upcoming January transfer window. However, Mokbel has dismissed these claims, insisting that signing another goalkeeper is not currently a priority for the club.
While the rumours of new arrivals have been played down, the journalist revealed that the bigger concern lies with Kinsky’s regression on the training ground.
Mokbel explained that Kinsky’s sharpness and drive appeared to fade once Vicario regained fitness and reclaimed his starting spot. This loss of momentum has reportedly set off alarms within the coaching setup, who had previously viewed him as one of the brightest young prospects in his position.
Maintaining hunger and focus is vital for young players, particularly those competing for limited opportunities, and the perception that Kinsky’s intensity has dipped will be worrying for those overseeing his development.
When Postecoglou was still in charge, he publicly praised Kinsky for his attitude and composure, particularly after his impressive debut performance against Arne Slot’s Liverpool side.
The Australian manager highlighted the goalkeeper’s confidence and professionalism, saying: “We sensed his confidence when we first spoke to him. That was a big occasion for a young lad, and he handled himself outstandingly.” Such words once reflected Tottenham’s optimism about Kinsky’s potential but recent developments suggest his progress has stalled.
Now under Thomas Frank’s management, Tottenham are faced with a delicate situation. On one hand, Vicario remains the first-choice option despite some shaky moments; on the other, Kinsky’s stagnation means there is little immediate pressure on the Italian to perform.
This lack of competition could be problematic for a team aiming to challenge on multiple fronts this season.
Frank and his coaching team will need to reignite Kinsky’s motivation and restore his confidence if he is to fulfil the potential that saw Spurs bring him to the club.
At 22, the Czech goalkeeper still has time to develop, but consistency and mental resilience will be key if he is to become a genuine contender for the No.1 shirt again.
For now, Tottenham’s goalkeeping department appears stable on the surface, but beneath that, there are signs of unease that need careful management.
If Kinsky can rediscover the hunger and focus that defined his early months at Spurs, he could still emerge as an important figure for the club’s future.
However, if his form continues to dip, Tottenham may eventually have to reconsider their long-term goalkeeping plans a scenario Thomas Frank will be keen to avoid as he looks to keep his squad unified and competitive across all competitions.
