Dominic Solanke is expected to be Tottenham’s first-choice striker this season, but his absence from the squad for Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Getafe may open the door for Richarlison to start against Brentford, as he did on the opening day last term.
According to The Athletic, De Zerbi and performance director Dan Lewindon are managing Solanke’s minutes carefully in pre-season in an effort to avoid undue strain after two injury-hit campaigns in north London. Richarlison lined up as the central striker against Getafe, with Mathys Tel and Mikey Moore either side of him, perhaps offering an indication of the front three De Zerbi may use in the season opener.
Richarlison’s role
De Zerbi has said he wants Richarlison to stay if the player wants to stay and regards him as an important player. He also acknowledged that Richarlison sometimes wants to leave, leaving questions over the Brazilian’s future and his fit under De Zerbi.
The Athletic’s Elias Burke describes Richarlison as probably Spurs’ most threatening player in the box, but less accomplished than Solanke in link-up play. That is a consideration in a system that places significant emphasis on the forward line’s contribution to build-up play and playmaking.
Why the timing matters
Mohammed Kudus has returned to training after a left hamstring injury that has kept him out since early January. However, Xavi Simons and Wilson Odobert are still many months from returning as they recover from ruptured anterior cruciate ligament injuries, while Dejan Kulusevski has no public return timeline after more than 400 days out.
Without attacking additions and with Simons and Odobert injured, Tottenham are currently weaker in attack than they were on September 1 last year, according to Burke. The club are working on potential attacking reinforcements, with Savinho at the top of their list and Cody Gakpo among their targets, but options remain limited as the Brentford opener approaches.
Richarlison may therefore be needed centrally while Solanke’s workload is managed. Tottenham’s pursuit of additional forwards remains relevant as the season draws nearer.
