Tottenham have been brought back down to earth with a bump following the news that Guglielmo Vicario has undergone surgery on an ankle injury.
Spurs were on cloud nine after their 4-0 demolition of Manchester City at the Etihad on Saturday evening.
Ange Postecoglou’s side ripped the defending champions apart with a James Maddison brace in the first half and strikes from Pedro Porro and Brennan Johnson after the break.
At the other end, Vicario was instrumental to the victory, making multiple key saves — including thwarting Erling Haaland from close range — while the scores were still close.
However, the Italian was spotted limping off the pitch at full-time, sparking fears he may have picked up an injury.
But few would have suspected such a serious issue, with Vicario confirming on Instagram that he sustained a broken bone in his ankle and has already undergone surgery.
“Sometimes football gives you its highs, and sometimes it challenges you in ways you don’t expect,” Vicario wrote. “I played 60 minutes at the Etihad with a broken bone in my ankle, giving absolutely everything I had for the team. Unfortunately, there was no way around this one… I needed surgery.
“I’m disappointed I won’t be able to help the team for a while.
“A massive thank you to the doctors and the staff. The operation went well, and from tomorrow I’ll be working hard to come back stronger, fitter, and ready to give my all for you again.
“Thank you to the Spurs fans for all the love. See you soon on the pitch.
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Spurs stars react to Guglielmo Vicario injury news
Naturally, Vicario’s Spurs teammates were in the replies wishing the 28-year-old well in his recovery.
“We’ll be waiting for you brother,” wrote compatriot Destiny Udogie.
“Back soon brother,” was James Maddison’s message, while Richarlison wrote: Strong bro.”
Dominic Solanke and Dejan Kulusevski both posted heart emojis while even Manor Solomon — on loan from Spurs at Leeds United — weighed in, writing: “Speedy recovery my brother.”
In Vicario’s absence, Fraser Forster will step up, with Spurs hosting Roma and Fulham this week before travelling to Bournemouth a week on Thursday.
