Tottenham Hotspur’s search for a first Premier League victory of the season has been complicated by the ongoing situation surrounding striker Richarlison. The Brazil international was omitted from the club’s Premier League squad amid a contractual dispute, while a proposed deadline-day return to Everton collapsed after the forward failed to agree personal terms with the Toffees.
Deadline-Day Move to Everton Falls Through
A proposed £35 million transfer back to Goodison Park broke down on deadline day. Sources indicate the 27-year-old was unable to reach an agreement with Everton over personal terms, leaving his immediate future in North London uncertain.
Contract Dispute Leads to Squad Exclusion
Richarlison has been left out of Tottenham’s Premier League squad as a dispute continues over the remaining nine months of his current contract, which expires next summer. The club retains the option to trigger a 12-month extension, but the forward is understood to be exploring his options and is keen to secure a release from the remainder of his deal.
Difficult Start for De Zerbi’s Spurs
The striker’s exile arrives at a challenging moment for Tottenham. Under head coach De Zerbi, the side is still searching for a first league win of the new campaign. They have failed to score in their opening four Premier League matches—a first in the club’s history.
This underwhelming start comes despite a summer expenditure exceeding £300 million to strengthen the squad following back-to-back 17th-placed finishes.
Richarlison’s Recent Form and Record
Despite the current standoff, Richarlison was Tottenham’s leading scorer last season, netting 12 goals in all competitions. That tally was five more than the next highest scorers, centre-back Micky van de Ven and defensive midfielder Joao Palhinha.
The striker also boasts a strong record against upcoming opponents Liverpool, having scored four goals in seven matches against the Reds during his time at Spurs. He joined the club from Everton in 2022 following previous spells with Watford and the Merseyside club, and has won 54 caps for Brazil.
