Tottenham’s poor Premier League start continued with a 3–2 home defeat to Aston Villa on September 19. Spurs remain without a league win after five matches and will spend the international break in the relegation zone.
The Days Gazette report focuses on Mateus Fernandes, who started in midfield but was taken off at half-time, with Mohammed Kudus replacing him. The substitution was viewed by some supporters as an indication that Roberto De Zerbi was unhappy with Fernandes’ first-half contribution.
However, reports on Fernandes’ performance are not completely unanimous. One Tottenham player-rating report gave him 5/10, while another assessment criticised the decision to substitute him. The harsh comments circulating online — including claims that he is “not a Premier League talent” or should be dropped — are fan reactions rather than established facts.
Spurs actually started the match strongly. Savinho and Archie Gray both went close, while Villa goalkeeper Zion Suzuki made several important saves. Tottenham controlled much of the opening period but failed to convert their chances.
Villa then struck just before half-time. With Micky van de Ven temporarily off the pitch receiving treatment after taking a blow to the face, Johan Manzambi finished from Boubacar Kamara’s delivery to put the visitors ahead.
After Fernandes was replaced, Tottenham struggled to regain control. Kudus thought he had scored Spurs’ first league goal of the season, but VAR ruled the goal out for offside in the build-up.
Villa eventually took a commanding lead. Nicolas Jackson made it 2–0 in the 67th minute before Emi Buendía produced a spectacular long-range strike to put Villa three goals ahead.
Tottenham finally ended their Premier League scoring drought late in the match. Conor Gallagher pulled one back before Jean Paul van Hecke headed in a second during stoppage time. The late comeback was not enough, however, and Villa held on for a 3–2 victory.
Interestingly, Sandro Tonali was one of Tottenham’s more positive performers. He started the game, created opportunities and produced a long-range effort that was deflected wide. His performance contrasted with the criticism directed at Fernandes after the defeat.
The defeat has therefore intensified scrutiny around De Zerbi’s tactics, Tottenham’s summer recruitment and the performances of several new signings. The international break now gives Spurs time to regroup before their next Premier League fixture.
