Antonio Conte, the manager of Tottenham Hotspur, has been urged to take action against Brazilian striker Richarlison after his comments following the club’s exit from the Champions League.
In an interview with Brazilian media outlet TNT Sports, Richarlison harshly criticised Conte for not starting him in the match against AC Milan, despite only scoring two goals in all competitions this season.
His comments have not been well-received by Tottenham fans and pundits alike, with former Aston Villa striker Gabby Agbonlahor suggesting that Conte should punish Richarlison by forcing him to play with the U18s.
Agbonlahor commented on talkSport:
“Richarlison, £60 million he cost. Premier League goals zero, assists, two.”
“Always moaning, always rolling around on the floor.
“He’s come out and said he’s had a positive moment and say’s Conte put me on the bench. His positive moment is two games, zero goals – I don’t’ get it?
“Positive for £60m is a couple of goals, a couple of assists. So don’t be moaning when you’re not performing when you’re given a chance.
“If I’m Conte and Conte looks like that kind of manager, I’m sure his boots and kit are in the U18 dressing room this morning.”
This is a critical time for Tottenham, who are out of all competitions and will need to focus on finishing in the top four. With Liverpool close behind, it will not be an easy task.
Conte must ensure that he does not lose the dressing room and that other players do not undermine him. If that means making an example of Richarlison, he should do so.
It remains to be seen whether or not Conte will take action against Richarlison, but his comments have certainly caused a stir among Tottenham fans.
