Tottenham Hotspur forward Richarlison has expressed his frustration with manager Antonio Conte over his lack of playing time this season.
The 25-year-old Brazilian joined Spurs from Everton for a hefty sum of £60 million last summer but has started just seven games in the Premier League since then.
Richarlison has faced a series of injuries that have kept him out of the squad for long periods, but even when fit, he has struggled to secure a spot in the starting lineup. The latest snub came when he was brought on as a 70th-minute substitute during Tottenham’s Champions League game against AC Milan, which they ultimately lost.
In an interview with Brazilian TV station TNT Sports after the match, Richarlison expressed his frustration, saying he should have played. He explained that he had played well in previous games, including victories over Chelsea and West Ham, but was unexpectedly benched without any explanation.
🚨 Richarlison: “I'm honest, this season has been shit. I want to play”, tells TNT Sport. ⚪️🇧🇷 #THFC
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 9, 2023
“I didn't understand [Conte’s choices]. I was in positive moment… and Conte put me on the bench again. Yesterday he tested me in the starting XI and then… bench, again”. pic.twitter.com/mh5U84IXtv
He also revealed that the day before the AC Milan match, he was asked to take a fitness test in the gym and was told he would start the game if he passed. However, he was eventually left on the bench, leaving him perplexed and disappointed.
Richarlison, who has only managed to play 661 minutes in the Premier League this season, with his only goals for the club coming against Marseille in the Champions League in September, has been vocal about his limited opportunities. He admits he has not given enough back on the pitch yet but is determined to make the most of the remaining games and score as many goals as possible.
Spurs currently sit in fourth place in the Premier League and are set to face Nottingham Forest on Saturday. Richarlison has expressed his focus on the remaining games and is hopeful that he will get more opportunities to contribute to the team’s success.
In conclusion, Richarlison’s comments have shed light on the frustration of players who struggle to secure a place in the starting lineup despite their talent and commitment.
There are strong rumours that Antonio Conte is heading back to Italy for a return to Inter Milan. Should he go? Let us know!
