Tottenham Hotspur fans have made their anger clear following the team’s heavy 3-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest on Sunday, and the fallout has not just been aimed at manager Thomas Frank. While Frank was already under pressure, supporters have now demanded the removal of three key players from the squad, reflecting the frustration over a disappointing start to the season.
Callum Hudson-Odoi scored twice for Forest, with Ibrahim Sangaré adding a late third, handing Spurs their sixth league defeat in 16 games. Yet, fans were equally vocal about three of Frank’s own players, highlighting growing dissatisfaction with individual performances.
The Italian goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario bore the brunt of criticism, particularly for his error leading to Hudson-Odoi’s second goal. The cross left Vicario stranded and allowed the ball to slip past him to the far post, a mistake that perfectly summed up his inconsistent season.
Vicario’s shaky form has been a recurring issue, contributing to defeats such as Fulham’s 2-1 win last month, and supporters feel his performances no longer justify his status as the first-choice goalkeeper.
Many fans are calling for a permanent replacement, even though young backup Antonin Kinsky has shown promise when given opportunities. At just 22, Kinsky impressed during his limited appearances, including a standout performance in a 1-0 Carabao Cup victory over Liverpool, but Spurs may feel he lacks the experience required to shoulder the responsibility of a struggling defense.
Rumors suggest the club could pursue a “world-class” goalkeeper in the next transfer window to address this urgent concern.
Rodrigo Bentancur has also come under fire, with fans highlighting a noticeable dip in his form compared to the early stages of his Tottenham career. While he was once seen as a key midfield presence, his influence has waned, and supporters argue that he has failed to provide the level of consistency needed to stabilize the team.
Bentancur’s inability to control possession and link play effectively has been especially exposed in matches like the Forest defeat, leaving fans frustrated at his lack of impact.
The third player in the firing line is Richarlison, whose inconsistency has become a significant liability. Despite registering six goals in 16 league appearances this season, the Brazilian striker has struggled to dominate matches or provide the attacking spark Spurs desperately need.
His hold-up play is often poor, and he rarely takes control of games, which has left the fanbase questioning why Frank continues to rely on him as the starting number nine. Many see the upcoming transfer window as an opportunity to cash in on Richarlison, whose contract will have just a year remaining next summer.
Potential moves to leagues such as the Saudi Pro League or clubs in the Middle East could benefit both the player and Spurs’ financial position, allowing the club to reinvest in more effective attacking options.
Fan sentiment has been clear and vociferous. Social media platforms like X have been flooded with messages demanding the removal of Vicario, Bentancur, and Richarlison alongside Thomas Frank. One supporter wrote, “Richarlison, Bentancur, Vicario. Sick of watching more than any others,” while another added, “Leave Frank, Vicario, Bentancur and Richarlison in Nottingham please.”
Others called for a complete overhaul, emphasizing the need for decisive action to reset the squad and restart the team’s season on a stronger footing. These calls reflect frustration not only at individual performances but also at the club’s inability to translate summer spending into consistent success on the pitch.
Despite these concerns, the trio remain central to Frank’s current plans. Vicario is the undisputed first-choice goalkeeper, Bentancur is a key figure in midfield, and Richarlison remains the manager’s preferred striker.
However, the mounting criticism highlights a tension between the manager’s selections and supporter expectations, with many believing a bold approach is required to revive Tottenham’s campaign.
The upcoming transfer window is likely to be pivotal, as the club could look to replace struggling individuals with proven performers, particularly in goal and attack, while reassessing the squad’s composition to provide Frank with a stronger platform for success.
The defeat at the City Ground has amplified these frustrations, but it also underscores a broader issue: Spurs’ current squad is underperforming despite significant investment in recent transfer windows. Fans are calling for tangible action, arguing that patience has worn thin.
Moving Vicario, Bentancur, and Richarlison on would signal intent and ambition, even if such changes may disrupt the established first-team hierarchy. Tottenham’s leadership faces a delicate balancing act retaining key players to maintain continuity while also addressing the areas that have contributed to heavy defeats like the one against Nottingham Forest.
| Player | Issue | Possible Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Guglielmo Vicario | Inconsistent form, errors leading to goals | Replace with experienced goalkeeper, consider transfer |
| Rodrigo Bentancur | Lack of influence, inconsistent midfield control | Evaluate performance, potential sale or squad rotation |
| Richarlison | Inconsistent attacking output, poor hold-up play | Potential sale next summer, reinvest in striker |
| Thomas Frank | Manager under pressure, team underperforming | Possible reassessment, stronger squad support |
In summary, Tottenham’s fans are demanding accountability after a frustrating campaign, pointing fingers at both management and key players. While the current trio remains integral to Frank’s plans, the combination of on-field struggles and vocal supporter dissatisfaction suggests that major changes may be imminent.
The club must carefully navigate this situation, ensuring that any moves strengthen the squad while restoring faith among the fanbase.
