Mathys Tel was forced off with an ankle injury before half-time in Tottenham’s Premier League clash against Leeds, after a challenge from Jayden Bogle that went unpunished despite a lengthy VAR review. The French forward limped from the pitch following a stamp from Bogle, whose studs caught Tel’s ankle.
Referee John Brooks initially did not issue a card to Bogle, and after over four minutes of VAR consultation, the on-field decision of no red card was upheld. The Premier League Match Centre confirmed the outcome, stating, “The referee’s call of no red card to Bogle for the challenge on Tel was checked and confirmed by VAR.” VAR official Tony Harrington told Brooks there was “a lack of speed going into the challenge and he’s stepping into the tackle,” confirming it as a reckless challenge but not one warranting a sending-off.
The incident drew comparisons to a recent moment involving Jean-Philippe Mateta, who was shown red after a VAR review in Spurs’ match against Crystal Palace last weekend. Spurs manager Roberto De Zerbi expressed visible frustration at the decision, especially as a similar foul by Pedro Porro later in the game earned a yellow card, and De Zerbi was booked for his reaction to that caution.
“Pedro Porro’s was a duel and an incredible yellow card. The first situation of Mathys Tel I didn’t see, I can’t say nothing,” De Zerbi told TNT Sports. When asked if the referee should have used the monitor to review Bogle’s challenge, he replied, “No. I have big confidence in the referee. Nothing changes if he goes to the monitor. If they didn’t take the right decision I don’t know. We have to keep the eyes on the performance where can improve.”
Leeds manager Javi Farke defended Bogle, describing him as one of the “softest players in the whole league” and dismissing any suggestion of malice. “I have heard there were several doubtful situations. A possible hand ball. I just know that Jayden Bogle out of any bad intention. It looked like a coming together,” Farke said. “It’s very unlucky outcome that Mathys is injured and we wish him all the best and he can recover quickly. The last thing Jayden Bogle is a nasty player. I always call him my butterfly, and I can guarantee it was never out of bad intention.”
De Zerbi’s frustration deepened when Tel, after attempting to continue playing for several minutes, signalled to the bench that he could no longer carry on. Dominic Solanke replaced the 19-year-old in the 43rd minute. Solanke had been dropped from the starting line-up following Spurs’ 2-0 victory over Crystal Palace.
Tottenham’s attacking options have already been hit hard by injury this season. Alongside Tel’s setback, Savio and Mykhailo Mudryk remain sidelined until after the international break. Xavi Simons and Wilson Odobert continue their recoveries from serious knee injuries, with returns expected after the turn of the year.
De Zerbi confirmed Tel’s injury was serious but did not specify the expected recovery time. “Tel has a bad injury on his ankle, but I don’t know how long [he will be out] yet,” he said.
Tel has been one of Tottenham’s standout performers in recent weeks. He scored a solo goal in their 2-0 win at Chelsea on 24 October, securing the club’s first victory at Stamford Bridge since 2018.
The incident and VAR decision will likely continue to spark debate given the visible nature of the challenge and its consequences for Tottenham’s squad. Meanwhile, Spurs must now adapt without one of their most promising forwards as they prepare for their next fixtures.
According to Yahoo Sports.
