Tottenham Hotspur will place greater importance on remaining in the Premier League than advancing further in the Champions League, according to interim head coach Igor Tudor.
The club’s difficult league campaign led to the dismissal of Thomas Frank last month. Since taking over, Tudor has suffered three consecutive defeats, leaving Spurs just one point above the relegation zone.
Their performances in European competition have been far more convincing. Tottenham secured automatic progression to the last 16 of the UEFA Champions League and will face Atlético Madrid away in the first leg on Tuesday evening.
However, maintaining the club’s long-standing presence in England’s top tier remains the primary focus. Tottenham are aiming to preserve a run that has kept them in the top division for 49 straight seasons.
Speaking during a press conference in Madrid, Tudor emphasised that every match matters but confirmed the domestic campaign comes first. He explained that the Champions League represents an additional opportunity, though the team still intends to compete strongly and try to progress to the next round.
Players return ahead of Madrid clash
Tottenham will be boosted by the return of several key players ahead of the trip to Spain. Defenders Djed Spence and Cristian Romero are both available again.
Romero, who also serves as club captain, is set to make his first appearance since Tudor took charge after completing a suspension. The Argentine centre-back’s comeback is expected to provide additional leadership to the side.
Tudor confirmed that Richarlison will start the match after being introduced from the bench in each of the coach’s first three games in charge.
The manager also noted that the squad had been missing several regular starters recently. Having more players back in their usual roles, he said, should help the team perform better.
European night offers chance to shift momentum
The away match at Atletico’s Metropolitano Stadium offers Tottenham an opportunity to alter the mood surrounding the team. Tudor believes a change of competition could help the players refocus.
Although the coach did not describe the fixture as pressure-free, he acknowledged that stepping away from Premier League struggles may provide a chance to reset before crucial domestic matches.
Tudor’s position has already become a subject of discussion after three losses and disappointing displays. He hopes the return of Romero will strengthen the squad’s mentality and structure.
Romero himself has been frustrated by his inability to contribute while suspended, but Tudor said the defender has worked intensively in recent weeks to regain match fitness.
Another intriguing aspect of the match will be the touchline battle between Tudor and the experienced Atletico coach Diego Simeone.