As Tottenham Hotspur’s squad gradually reconvenes at Hotspur Way ahead of a pivotal 2025–26 campaign under new boss Thomas Frank, a significant group — sixteen players — are earmarked to report later, following international duty, deep-tournament outings, or extended rest. Their delayed return reflects careful squad management, ensuring readiness without risking fatigue.
1. Cristian Romero
The Argentine centre-back, a mainstay in Spurs’ defence since his 2021 arrival, prolonged his summer after Copa América 2024 action. Tottenham are weighing his future amid reported interest and a £70 million valuation .
2. Rodrigo Bentancur
Midfield linchpin Bentancur sat out Uruguay’s post-season but returns only in week two of July. He featured prominently in the Europa League final triumph .
3. Radu Dragusin
Romania’s defensive prospect delayed return after international commitments, also slated to arrive prior to the South Korea tour .
4. Giovani Lo Celso
Currently negotiating fitness and fitness strategies, Lo Celso is absent from the early group and joins later ahead of the Premier League season .
5. Micky van de Ven
The Dutch centre‑back, active through Euro 2024, shares the delayed return timeline with Romero and others .
6. Pape Matar Sarr
Involved in Mali’s summer rounds, the versatile midfielder is scheduled to enter the squad later .
7. Bryan Gil
Given permission to seek a transfer, Gil is not on the early welcome list but will join later unless a sale material.
8. Sergio Reguilón
Similarly sidelined initially due to stands in potential departures, the left-back will return later per club stateme
9. Harry Winks
Omitted from the touring squad as he pursues permanent moves, Winks is training separately and will integrate later .
10. Tanguy Ndombele
Soon returning from a season-long spell at Lyon, Ndombele is expected back in mid-July .
11. Giovani Lo Celso (already noted; remains on list)
(Duplicate; note integration of original 16)
11. Yves Bissouma
The recent signing from Mali is recovering from his national tournament and joins late to continue rehabilitation .
12. Dejan Kulusevski
Though injured, the Swedish winger remains part of the squad and is scheduled to return mid-summer .
13. Alejo Veliz
Spotted early training, but per previews, Veliz is expected to properly integrate later with the main group .
14. Dane Scarlett
The young striker, returning from U19 duty, joins the squad later, managing recovery from his commitments .
15. Will Lankshear
A youth forward spotted early, but scheduled to join the squad later ahead of the fixtures .
16. Mikey Moore
Part of the delayed return segment, he’ll arrive in time for pre-season friendlies .
📅 Why the staggered return?
International fatigue is a key factor: players like Romero, Bentancur, van de Ven, and Dragusin remain on extended rest or training programs after their national tournament runs .
Injury management is another concern: Bissouma is progressing through tailored rehab, Kulusevski continues recovery, and youth players are conditioned carefully .
Transfer market uncertainty affects Gil, Reguilón, Winks, and Ndombele — they haven’t been included for South Korea, remaining on site for transfer discussions or to train .
And finally, youth progression means academy prospects like Scarlett, Veliz, and Lankshear are integrating deliberately, affording them development space without early first-team pressure .
🔜 Pre-Season Schedule & Integration Plan
Tottenham’s pre-season kicks off with the first friendly July 19 vs Reading, followed by matches against Luton Town, Arsenal, Newcastle, and Bayern Mun. Thomas Frank’s campaign window divides into phases:
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Phase 1 (Early July): Core non-international players and returning injured lads begin physical testing and tactical work.
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Phase 2 (Second week July): International returnees including the 16 join, boosting squad depth ahead of tour departure.
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Phase 3 (Tour Departure, likely July 9–13): Full squad travels to South Korea for the Asia tour — but players in ongoing transfer or rehab remain behind
This staggered approach allows Frank to assess fitness, tailor training load, and monitor fringe players — all while safeguarding those in sensitive situations.
🔍 Takeaway
Tottenham’s carefully calibrated roll-in of 16 players during pre‑season reflects a strategic balance of fitness, recovery, transfer operations, and youth development. With Frank just settling in, integrating these players effectively will shape the team’s readiness for August’s Premier League opener.
Understanding who’s arriving when provides a clearer view of how Spurs are preparing for a full-frontal season — without rushing anyone and keeping options open.
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