Ange Postecoglou has expressed confidence that Mathys Tel is eager to play for Tottenham after his loan move from Bayern Munich was finalised on deadline day. Tel, who joined alongside Antonin Kinsky, Min-hyeok Yang, and Kevin Danso, was sought after by several Premier League clubs, including Manchester United and Arsenal. However, he opted to join Spurs for the remainder of the season.
Reports had previously indicated that Tel initially declined Tottenham's offer before changing his mind at the last moment. The club has an option to make the transfer permanent in the summer for £45.7 million on a six-year contract if Tel performs well during his loan period. His arrival strengthens Tottenham's attack, especially with Dominic Solanke, Brennan Johnson, Timo Werner, and Wilson Odobert currently sidelined due to injuries.

When asked about Tel's commitment to joining Tottenham, Postecoglou assured reporters that the young player is enthusiastic about his time with the team. "I am more than 100% sure that he wants to be here," Postecoglou stated on Wednesday. He praised Tel's diligence in making his decision, which reinforced Postecoglou's belief in acquiring a player with the right mindset and ambition.
Postecoglou highlighted Tel's self-belief and confidence as qualities that could propel him to the top of his game. "He is very ambitious," he added. The manager also acknowledged the challenges faced by a 19-year-old making such a significant career decision and commended Tel for taking his time to feel comfortable with his choice.
Postecoglou spoke ahead of Tottenham’s EFL Cup semi-final second leg against Liverpool on Thursday. Spurs hold a narrow 1-0 lead from the first leg but have been eliminated three times out of five when winning the first leg at this stage in recent years. They aim to defeat Liverpool twice in one season for the first time since 2010-11.
Despite Opta’s data-led simulations giving Tottenham just an 11.2% chance of winning at Anfield, Postecoglou believes Liverpool will also feel pressure ahead of this crucial match. "It's a big occasion for everyone," he remarked. Both clubs are eager for success in this semi-final clash.
The manager emphasised that these high-stakes games are what teams strive for rather than watching from home as spectators. He concluded by saying that both sides will be anxious but must embrace the challenge to achieve success.