Thomas Frank Excludes Tottenham Star from Super Cup Squad Before PSG Clash, Asserting Authority

Thomas Frank Axes Yves Bissouma from Spurs’ Super Cup Squad Over Lateness
By Matt Barlow, Football Writer | Updated: 19:05 BST, 12 August 2025

Tottenham manager Thomas Frank has excluded midfielder Yves Bissouma from his squad for the UEFA Super Cup final against Paris Saint-Germain after the player arrived late for team duties again. The disciplinary action underscores Frank’s no-nonsense approach as he begins his tenure at the club.

Bissouma’s punctuality issues have plagued his time at Spurs, drawing criticism from previous managers. Antonio Conte frequently called out his tardiness, while Ange Postecoglou dropped him early last season following a viral video of the Mali international inhaling nitrous oxide. Frank’s decision to sideline the 28-year-old marks a stern response to recurring behavioral concerns.

“He has been late several times, and this time is one too many,” said Frank. “You need to give players love, but there must be demands and consequences. For this trip, there’s a consequence. We’ll address it further after the match.”

[Image: Yves Bissouma during a training session, looking focused but subdued. Caption: Bissouma’s recurring tardiness costs him a Super Cup spot.]

Injury Updates and Key Absences
Bissouma’s absence adds to Spurs’ selection headaches. Left-back Destiny Udogie remains sidelined with injury, though Frank confirmed he is “getting closer” to fitness. On a positive note, striker Dominic Solanke has recovered from an ankle issue and is available for the final.

Road to the Super Cup
Tottenham secured their place in the Super Cup by defeating Manchester United in last season’s Europa League final. PSG, meanwhile, dominated Inter Milan 5-0 to claim the Champions League title, setting up a thrilling clash between two of Europe’s in-form teams.

[Image: Tottenham players celebrating with the Europa League trophy. Caption: Spurs’ Europa League triumph earned them a shot at Super Cup glory.]

Frank’s Authority on Display
The manager’s decision to drop Bissouma highlights his intent to enforce discipline early in his Spurs reign. Fans have largely backed the move, echoing frustrations over the midfielder’s inconsistent focus since joining from Brighton in 2022. While Bissouma’s talent is undeniable—evident in flashes of dominant midfield displays—his off-field lapses continue to overshadow his potential.

Frank now faces the challenge of balancing squad harmony with high-stakes demands. The Super Cup offers a chance to set the tone for Tottenham’s season, but PSG’s star-studded lineup, led by Kylian Mbappé, will test their resolve.

PSG’s Formidable Threat
PSG enter the match as favorites, boasting a roster brimming with attacking firepower. Their Champions League final rout of Inter showcased a team at its peak, and manager Luis Enrique will look to capitalize on Spurs’ disrupted preparations.

[Image: PSG’s Kylian Mbappé celebrating a goal. Caption: Mbappé aims to add the Super Cup to PSG’s growing trophy haul.]

Final Thoughts
All eyes will be on how Tottenham adapt without Bissouma. Midfielders Pape Matar Sarr and Rodrigo Bentancur are likely to shoulder greater responsibilities. For Frank, the match isn’t just about silverware—it’s an early statement of intent.

The UEFA Super Cup kicks off at 20:00 BST in Helsinki.

Follow live updates and post-match analysis on Mail Sport.

[Image: Tottenham and PSG fans cheering with team scarves. Caption: Firms clash in Helsinki for European supremacy.]

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