Tottenham Predicted Line-Up vs Aston Villa: Thomas Frank Faces Selection Dilemma as Muani Returns
Tottenham Hotspur return to Premier League action on Sunday afternoon when they host Aston Villa at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
After a hard-fought 2-1 win at Leeds before the international break, Thomas Frank’s side will be aiming to build on that momentum and continue their push near the top of the table.
With players returning from international duty and some key names back in contention, Frank faces one of his first true selection dilemmas since taking over in North London.
The Danish manager used the international break wisely, reflecting on his team’s strong start and ensuring his squad remains mentally and physically sharp.
His philosophy of high energy, tactical structure, and attacking intent has already won over many fans, and a positive result against Aston Villa could further strengthen their growing belief in his methods.
Still, Frank knows the importance of consistency in a demanding Premier League campaign, and he’ll be keen to avoid unnecessary disruption while also rewarding those in form.
If this fixture had followed directly after the Leeds victory, an unchanged line-up might have been expected. The team performed well, showing resilience and composure under pressure.
However, the international break has changed the picture. The return of Randal Kolo Muani is a major boost. The French striker, who missed the last five matches due to a dead leg, is finally available and pushing for selection.
His pace, movement, and link-up play make him a valuable asset, and Frank now has to decide whether to thrust him straight into the starting lineup or ease him back gradually.
In defence, few changes are expected. Cristian “Cuti” Romero, who did not feature for Argentina against Puerto Rico, is well-rested and ready to lead the backline once again.
His partnership with Micky van de Ven has become one of Tottenham’s most reliable foundations, combining aggression with composure. Both defenders complement each other well Romero’s anticipation and Van de Ven’s recovery speed give Spurs balance at the back.
The full-back positions, however, might see some rotation. Djed Spence is pushing for a recall after impressing during the international break with England, helping his team keep consecutive clean sheets.
He could be rewarded with a start on the left side, potentially replacing Destiny Udogie. On the opposite flank, Pedro Porro remains a guaranteed starter, continuing to offer width and attacking threat from right-back.
In midfield, Thomas Frank is expected to stick with Joao Palhinha and Rodrigo Bentancur, whose work rate and defensive discipline have become vital.
Facing Aston Villa’s dynamic midfield, their ability to break up play and shield the defence will be crucial. Their presence also frees up the attacking players to express themselves without fear of being caught out of position.
Further forward, the attacking options are both exciting and complex. Wilson Odobert and Mathys Tel are likely to retain their places following impressive performances for France’s Under-21 side during the international break.
Odobert was particularly brilliant, scoring twice against both the Faroe Islands and Estonia while providing an assist. Tel, meanwhile, continued his good form with two goals of his own and found the net in Tottenham’s win at Leeds.
Tel’s early months at Spurs have been challenging, especially after missing out on the Champions League squad, but his response has been mature and determined.
His versatility, pace, and finishing ability give Frank a dangerous weapon on the left wing or through the middle if required. Odobert, on the other hand, offers flair and unpredictability, something Tottenham have at times lacked in recent seasons.
Mohammed Kudus, fresh from helping Ghana qualify for the World Cup, is expected to start on the right. His explosive dribbling, creativity, and eye for goal make him one of Tottenham’s most influential attacking players.
In the number 10 role, Xavi Simons could once again be entrusted with the responsibility of linking midfield and attack. The young playmaker has been steadily growing into his role and will relish the chance to dictate play against Villa’s defensive unit.
Richarlison is another player likely to feature, perhaps from the bench, as he remains relatively fresh after playing limited minutes for Brazil despite long travels to Asia for international friendlies.
His physicality and pressing could be a useful option later in the game if Spurs need added energy up front.
As it stands, Thomas Frank seems poised to keep faith in the core of the side that triumphed at Leeds, with a few tactical adjustments to freshen things up. Spurs’ likely starting eleven could see Vicario in goal, protected by Porro, Romero, Van de Ven, and Spence.
In midfield, Palhinha and Bentancur should anchor the centre, providing stability and drive. Ahead of them, Kudus, Simons, and Odobert will operate behind the in-form Mathys Tel, who looks set to continue leading the line.
Tottenham’s predicted line-up in a 4-3-3 formation: Vicario; Porro, Romero, Van de Ven, Spence; Palhinha, Bentancur; Kudus, Simons, Odobert; Tel.
It’s a balanced team built on energy, discipline, and creative flair. With the likes of Kolo Muani and Richarlison available as impact options, Spurs have depth that could make all the difference as they look to maintain their winning momentum against Aston Villa and keep the pressure on the league’s top contenders
