In a significant blow to Tottenham Hotspur's aspirations this season, midfielder James Maddison has been ruled out for the remainder of the campaign due to a knee injury. The injury occurred during the first leg of the UEFA Europa League semi-final against Bodo/Glimt, where Maddison scored the second goal in a 3-1 victory. This injury not only sidelines him for the crucial second leg but also jeopardizes his participation in a potential Europa League final in Bilbao on May 21, 2025, should Spurs advance.
Tottenham's head coach, Ange Postecoglou, confirmed the news, expressing disappointment for Maddison, who has been a pivotal player in the team's recent performances. "Unfortunately, Madders last week hurt his knee and it looks like he's got an issue there," Postecoglou stated. "That'll keep him out for the rest of the season, which is disappointing... disappointing for him, more than anything because he's been important for us, particularly this latter part of the year and particularly in Europe - he's been a catalyst for a lot of our good stuff."
The injury is yet another setback for a Tottenham side that has struggled with injuries throughout the season. Maddison, who is 28 years old, has been instrumental in Spurs' Europa League run, contributing significantly with 12 goals and 11 assists this season, including seven goal contributions in the Europa League alone.
In addition to Maddison's absence, Tottenham will also miss midfielder Lucas Bergvall, who has been ruled out for the rest of the season due to an ankle injury sustained during training. The loss of both players comes at a critical juncture as Spurs aim to clinch their first European trophy since the 1984 UEFA Cup and their first silverware of any kind in 17 years.
As Tottenham prepares for the second leg against Bodo/Glimt on May 8, 2025, the team is also facing challenges in the Premier League. Currently languishing in 16th place, Spurs are under pressure to secure points in their remaining fixtures to avoid their worst top-flight finish since 1977. Postecoglou's side will need to rally together, especially with the absence of key players like Maddison and Bergvall.
Tottenham goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario highlighted the team's resilience in dealing with injuries, stating, "We have to always deal with it to be fair. We will not have Sonny and Madders tomorrow, but it is on us. The importance of the entire squad will be crucial." The reference to "Sonny" pertains to captain Son Heung-min, who is also sidelined with a foot injury.
Despite the challenges, there is a glimmer of hope for Spurs as striker Dominic Solanke, who was also injured in the first leg against Bodo/Glimt, has been declared fit for the second leg. Postecoglou confirmed, "Dom's improving. We left him out today, but the medical team are pretty confident that he should be alright for Thursday."
If Tottenham can overcome Bodo/Glimt and secure a spot in the final, they could potentially face Manchester United, who are leading their semi-final tie against Athletic Bilbao. This match represents a critical opportunity for Spurs to end their long trophy drought and secure qualification for next season's Champions League.
As the club navigates this turbulent period, the focus will undoubtedly be on how they can adapt and perform without key players like Maddison. The upcoming matches will be crucial not only for their European ambitions but also for the future of Postecoglou, who has faced scrutiny amid the team's struggles.
In the meantime, Tottenham's supporters will be hoping for a strong performance in Norway, as the team seeks to advance to the final and bring home much-needed silverware.
