Giovani Lo Celso appears to be on the verge of leaving Tottenham Hotspur this summer, following his exclusion from Spurs’ pre-season friendly against Bayern Munich on Saturday. The decision by manager Ange Postecoglou to leave the 28-year-old midfielder out of the squad for Tottenham’s 3-2 loss to Vincent Kompany’s side has fueled speculation about his future at the club.
With Lo Celso’s contract set to expire next summer, it seems unlikely that he will play a significant role at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in the 2024/25 season. Lo Celso initially joined Spurs on a permanent basis in January 2020 from Real Betis for a fee of £27.2 million. However, despite his potential, the Argentine has failed to make a lasting impression on Postecoglou. After spending last season on loan at Villarreal, Lo Celso now looks set for a permanent exit from North London.
A Classy Gesture Amid Uncertainty
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, Lo Celso displayed a touch of class by sending a heartfelt message to former teammate Harry Kane. The England captain, who recently transferred to Bayern Munich, returned to Tottenham and played for the German giants in Saturday’s friendly. Kane expressed his emotions in an Instagram post, saying, “Amazing to be back at a place that will always be very special to me. Thanks to everyone for an incredible welcome. Great to get some minutes in the legs and step up the preparation for the season.”
In response, Lo Celso commented on Kane’s post, simply writing, “Legend,” accompanied by four clapping hands emojis, acknowledging the bond they shared during their time together at Spurs.
Postecoglou’s Perspective on Lo Celso
When asked about Lo Celso’s lack of playing time earlier in the year, Postecoglou offered a pragmatic view. “It’s not just him,” the manager said, referring to other players who have faced similar challenges. “There have been a few in that boat where they just haven’t had a real good run in terms of injury disruptions and other times when he has been fit, other players have played in his position.”
Postecoglou did, however, acknowledge Lo Celso’s contributions when called upon. “I still think Gio’s been good for us this year. Through that middle patch when we had a lot of injuries, he really stood up for us and then got his own injury, of course. He made a real impact against Luton at the weekend and it really helped us get over the line.”
The Harsh Reality of Big Club Football
The Australian manager also emphasized the reality of managing a large squad at a top club like Tottenham. “Look, he’s a fantastic player, but with all these things you’ve got to keep the perspective that we’re at a big club, we’re going to have a big squad, and if it is not Gio, it will be someone else that will play that role next year,” Postecoglou remarked. “No one will play every game. It doesn’t happen. It doesn’t happen at all the big clubs, so I am never really worried about the game time players are playing.”
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Postecoglou made it clear that while game time is important, contribution to the team is what matters most. “If they want more game time, there are other clubs where they can do that, and I’m looking at contribution. With someone like Gio, like I said, he has contributed to us this year, and that’s been the most important thing for me.”
The Likely Departure Tottenham’s Giovani Lo Celso
Given the current situation, it seems inevitable that Lo Celso will depart Tottenham this summer. His lack of involvement in the pre-season match against Bayern Munich is a strong indicator that he is not in Postecoglou’s plans for the upcoming season. With his contract running down and no significant role on the horizon, a permanent move away from Spurs could provide Lo Celso with the fresh start he needs to reignite his career.
What’s Next for Lo Celso?
As the transfer window draws closer to its conclusion, several clubs are likely to be monitoring Lo Celso’s situation. His technical ability and experience, both in the Premier League and on the international stage with Argentina, make him an attractive option for teams seeking to bolster their midfield.
A move back to Spain, where he enjoyed success with Villarreal, could be a logical step. Alternatively, other European clubs may see Lo Celso as a valuable addition to their squads. Regardless of his destination, it is clear that the Argentine midfielder still has much to offer at the highest level.
Tottenham’s Transfer Strategy
For Tottenham, Lo Celso’s departure would free up space in the squad and potentially provide funds for further signings. Under Postecoglou’s leadership, Spurs are in the midst of a transition, aiming to build a team capable of competing for major honors. The club has already made several key acquisitions, including the £65 million signing of Dominic Solanke, and more moves are expected before the transfer window closes.
Lo Celso’s exit could be part of a broader strategy to reshape the squad, focusing on players who fit Postecoglou’s vision and style of play. While it is always difficult to see a talented player leave, Tottenham fans can be optimistic that the club is heading in the right direction.
Giovani Lo Celso’s time at Tottenham appears to be coming to an end, with his omission from the pre-season squad serving as a clear signal of his impending departure. Despite showing glimpses of his potential, the Argentine midfielder has struggled to cement a place in Postecoglou’s plans. As Spurs continue to evolve under new management, Lo Celso’s exit could pave the way for new arrivals who are better suited to the team’s ambitions. Wherever Lo Celso ends up, he will undoubtedly leave Tottenham with the best wishes of the fans and a legacy of professionalism and class.