Tottenham Hotspur head into a crucial Champions League tie against AS Monaco, desperate to respond after a disappointing home defeat to Aston Villa.
Thomas Frank’s side have struggled to find consistency on home soil, and the pressure is mounting as they travel to France seeking redemption and stability.
The focus now shifts to Europe, where Spurs will aim to bounce back and regain momentum in the league phase of the UEFA Champions League.
Frank knows this match carries weight not only for the points but for restoring confidence within the squad.
With key players out and form dipping, the Danish boss is expected to make some calculated changes, particularly in midfield, to inject freshness and control into the side. The trip to the Stade Louis II presents both a challenge and an opportunity to set things right.
Here is the predicted Tottenham starting XI for the clash against Monaco:
Goalkeeper – Guglielmo Vicario
Vicario is expected to retain his place between the posts despite conceding twice against Aston Villa. Questions continue to surround his handling of long-range shots, but Frank values his leadership and composure. The Italian has been a constant presence for Spurs this season, and the manager is unlikely to make a change at this stage of the campaign.
Right-back – Pedro Porro
With limited defensive options available, rotation is not an option for Tottenham. Porro’s attacking thrust and reliability on the right make him an automatic choice. His pace and delivery will be vital against Monaco’s quick transitions and overlapping wing play.
Centre-back – Kevin Danso
Cristian Romero’s fitness remains a concern, meaning Danso is expected to continue in central defence. The Austrian defender impressed in patches against Villa and will need to stay sharp to contain Monaco’s physical forwards.
Centre-back – Micky van de Ven
A mainstay in both Premier League and Champions League fixtures, Van de Ven’s consistency has been one of the few positives for Spurs this season. His recovery speed and calmness in possession make him indispensable in Frank’s defensive setup.
Left-back – Djed Spence
With Destiny Udogie nursing a knee issue, Spence could continue on the left side of defence. Although naturally a right-back, Spence has shown adaptability, and Frank will hope his pace can help balance the backline while providing width going forward.
Pivot Midfielder – Joao Palhinha
Palhinha has been one of Tottenham’s most reliable performers this season. The Portuguese international contributed an assist against Villa but struggled to break up attacks effectively. His defensive awareness and strength in duels will be key to controlling Monaco’s creative midfielders.
Centre Midfielder – Lucas Bergvall
Frank is expected to introduce more energy and attacking intent in midfield. Bergvall’s dynamism and ability to carry the ball forward make him an ideal choice to replace Rodrigo Bentancur. His inclusion would bring a fresh spark and more aggression in Tottenham’s buildup play.
Centre Midfielder – Pape Matar Sarr
Sarr’s return could be a pivotal move. Tottenham’s experiment of deploying Xavi Simons centrally has not worked out, and Sarr’s work rate, pressing ability, and knack for arriving late in the box give Spurs an extra dimension. His energy could prove crucial in breaking Monaco’s compact defensive lines.
Right Winger – Mohammed Kudus
Kudus had a quiet outing against Villa, but his talent and creativity make him undroppable. Frank will hope it was just an off-day, as the Ghanaian remains capable of producing moments of brilliance. His pace and unpredictability will be key against Monaco’s full-backs.
Striker – Richarlison
With Mathys Tel not included in Tottenham’s Champions League squad, Richarlison becomes the natural choice to lead the line. Though inconsistent, the Brazilian’s physical presence and ability to press from the front make him vital for Spurs’ attacking structure. Frank will be counting on him to rediscover his scoring touch under the lights in Monaco.
Left Winger – Brennan Johnson
Johnson has been patient, waiting for his chance from the bench, but the lack of impact from those ahead of him could finally open the door for a return to the starting lineup. His pace and directness could give Tottenham a different attacking option on the left flank.
Thomas Frank’s expected team selection shows a balance between trust and tactical adjustment. The changes in midfield could bring a much-needed lift, allowing Spurs to dictate play rather than chase it.
The emphasis will be on quick transitions, pressing high, and exploiting spaces behind Monaco’s defensive line.
If Tottenham can rediscover their rhythm and execute their plan effectively, they have every chance to turn their fortunes around and get their European campaign back on track.
This match is not just about points it’s about pride, response, and proving that Frank’s evolving Spurs still have the fight to compete at the highest level.
