Spurs' Frank Hints at Tactical Changes for Champions League Opener

Thomas Frank
Tottenham's Thomas Frank



Thomas Frank shares his thoughts on the new Champions League format and Randal Kolo Muani's readiness for his Spurs debut.


I believe I have a fantastic squad and we would like to go as far as possible. I think the most important thing is that it's one game at a time...”


Tottenham manager Thomas Frank has confirmed that Randal Kolo Muani will feature in the team's Champions League opener against Villarreal on Tuesday. Kolo Muani, who joined Spurs on loan from PSG, is expected to make his debut after being an unused substitute in the 3-0 win over West Ham. Frank said, “Randal Kolo Muani, he's ready. How many minutes? He can always play more minutes than we think. Of course, if we needed him to play, he could play 90 minutes.


Meanwhile, striker Dominic Solanke is still recovering from an ankle injury and won't be involved in the match against Villarreal. Frank added that Solanke is “taking steps in the right direction” but isn't ready to play yet. Solanke has missed the last two games with the injury and has only featured in the UEFA Super Cup and the opening two days of the Premier League campaign as a substitute.


Tottenham is looking to make a strong start in the Champions League, having avoided defeat in each of their last 20 UEFA competition games played at home. They've also only failed to score in one of their last 16 continental matches. With their recent Europa League victory and impressive Super Cup performance, Spurs will hope to carry the momentum into the new competition.


Frank is optimistic about the team's chances, saying, “I believe I have a fantastic squad and we would like to go as far as possible. I think the most important thing is that it's one game at a time. Villarreal are a very good team, I've been very impressed when I've studied them, but we'll do everything we can to get a good start.” The match against Villarreal will kick off at 8 pm UK time on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.




Frank Ready for Champions League Challenge

Frank is pumped up for the Champions League, calling it a “big thing“ and expressing his excitement to compete at this level. “I'm hugely looking forward to it,” he said. “I know it'll be special when we have that Champions League anthem playing.” This enthusiasm showcases his anticipation for the high-profile match, highlighting the prestige and grandeur associated with the Champions League anthem.


“Now it's preparation, there's a few more cameras, but it's business as usual. When we all go out onto the pitch tomorrow, then it'll be special. 


“I believe I have a fantastic squad and we would like to go as far as possible. I think the most important thing is that it's one game at a time. Villarreal are a very good team, I've been very impressed when I've studied them, but we'll do everything we can to get a good start. It's going to be a good challenge.”



Thomas Frank's Journey to the Champions League

Thomas Frank, the new manager of Tottenham Hotspur, is relishing the opportunity to lead his team in the Champions League. “It's a fantastic opportunity and experience,” he said, reflecting on his journey to the club and Europe's most elite competition. Frank took over from former manager Ange Postecoglou, who guided Spurs to Europa League glory but was dismissed after a disappointing Premier League campaign.


Frank's appointment has brought a new dynamic to the club, with a focus on inclusivity and collective effort. He has already made his mark by hosting a first-team meeting that included coaching staff and non-technical workers, showcasing his commitment to unity and openness. Despite the challenges of a difficult transfer window, Frank remains optimistic about building a stronger team, hinting at ongoing negotiations to bolster the squad.


As Spurs prepare to face Villarreal in the Champions League, Frank is focused on taking his team to “new heights.” He has expressed his desire to improve upon Spurs' dismal 17th-placed finish in the Premier League last season and is confident that his team can make a strong start in the competition.


“I was manager of Brentford in the Championship at Griffin Park, a small, compact stadium, and tomorrow we're playing in one of the best stadiums in the world, in front of our own fantastic fans. It's a European night and we know they'll be absolutely on it. It'll be so special.”


Dominic Solanke's Injury Update

Tottenham manager Thomas Frank has provided a positive update on Dominic Solanke's injury status, saying he's “taking steps in the right direction.” However, Solanke won't be ready to play against West Ham United on Saturday. Frank expects Solanke to be out for a bit longer but doesn't anticipate it to be a long-term absence. The striker has been dealing with a minor ankle issue, and recent reports suggested he might be out for several weeks or even until March due to a potential six-week recovery period for a Grade 2 ligament injury or meniscus issue.




Randal Kolo Muani Set for Tottenham Debut

Tottenham manager Thomas Frank has confirmed that Randal Kolo Muani will make his debut for the club in their Champions League clash against Villarreal on Tuesday. “Randal Kolo Muani, he's ready,” Frank said. “How many minutes? He can always play more minutes than we think. Of course, if we needed him to play, he could play 90 minutes, but can he play the intensity at the level we want? But he's ready and he'll be involved tomorrow, so that's the most important thing.” Muanis’s inclusion is likely to be one of three changes, with Destiny Udogie potentially starting in place of Djed Spence, and Rodrigo Bentancur possibly replacing Lucas Bergvall. Kolo Muani's versatility will be valuable for Tottenham, as he can play in multiple positions, including as a striker or on the left flank.


Thoughts on the New Champions League Format

When asked about the new Champions League format, Thomas Frank responded briefly, saying, “I am open to different things. It is interesting.” He didn't delve deeper into the topic, seemingly preferring to focus on the upcoming match against Villarreal rather than discussing the format's details.



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