At 20, Mathys Tel has already experienced a rollercoaster of emotions. A highly promising player at Stade Rennais, the Sarcelles native then caught the eye of Bayern Munich. The club didn't hesitate to spend around thirty million euros to acquire this promising French talent. In Bavaria, the striker learned alongside great coaches and players. But he never truly managed to establish himself. Sent on loan to Tottenham for six months last season, he was eager to get regular playing time. Convinced by his qualities, talent, and potential, the Spurs decided to sign him permanently on June 15th.
“We are delighted to announce the permanent signing of Mathys Tel from FC Bayern. Mathys joined the club from the Bundesliga in February on loan until the end of the season, with an option to make the transfer permanent. We can confirm that we have reached an agreement with Bayern, which will see the French Under-21 international sign a contract until 2031,” read the official statement. Regarding his transfer fee, a figure of €40 million has been mentioned. An interesting deal for the German club.
A slow decline
For his part, Tel could continue at a club he already knew (13 matches, 2 goals, and 1 assist during his loan spell). But he still had to deal with a change of manager. Ange Postecoglou was replaced by Thomas Frank. And it's fair to say that this wasn't good news for the Frenchman. After a difficult summer, during which he was the target of racist abuse after missing a penalty in the UEFA Super Cup against Paris Saint-Germain, things got even worse when he wasn't included in Spurs' Champions League squad.
Another blow for Mathys Tel, who discussed his situation in Ouest-France shortly afterward. "When you're not on a list, it definitely hurts. But I'm someone who stays quite positive, no matter the situation. I think I've worked a lot on the mental aspect. Today, it's definitely a disappointment; I would have liked to be there, but it's the coach's choice, and we can only respect it and work to respond in the best possible way on the pitch (...) In any case, I would have had that determined mindset to be effective this season."
A decisive month of January
Reinstated to Tottenham's Champions League squad in December, the striker born in 2005 has just suffered another blow. His club has once again left him out of the squad this January. A bitter setback for Tel, who is clearly fed up. This winter, the former Rennes player wants a change of scenery to get more playing time and continue his development. At the beginning of the month, RMC Sport reported the player's desire to go out on loan again. Paris FC was subsequently mentioned as a possible destination. But in recent days, the capital club has made progress in its pursuit of Neal Maupay (Marseille), as we revealed.
Indeed, the Marseille player is the top attacking priority. This isn't good news for Tel. Other options may still be available. According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, AS Roma, who have signed Robinio Vaz and Donyell Mallen, are monitoring his situation. Discussions have even taken place with the player's representatives, who want to play as he still has the 2026 World Cup in mind. But Roma prefers a loan, having already invested €52 million. Despite interest from other clubs, Tel will have to settle with Tottenham. This Wednesday, Sky Sports reported that despite the 20-year-old's disappointment, the London club insists he is not for sale and that they are counting on him. This is yet another blow for the player, who is certainly having a run of bad luck. He has about ten days left to find a way out.