Tottenham Hotspur have been dealt a massive blow ahead of their decisive Europa League semi-final second leg against Bodø/Glimt, with playmaker James Maddison officially ruled out for the remainder of the season.
The 28-year-old England international suffered a knee injury after scoring in the first leg at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, a match Spurs won 3-1. His withdrawal in the second half raised concern, and manager Ange Postecoglou has now confirmed the worst.
“Madders tweaked his knee in the first leg so he is out and will miss the rest of this season,” Postecoglou told reporters on Wednesday. “It’s disappointing for him because he’s been a big part of this latter part of the season for us, particularly in Europe.”
Injury Woes Mount for Spurs
Maddison’s absence is another major setback in what has been a turbulent, injury-hit season for the North London side. Already without captain Son Heung-min due to a foot problem, Spurs will now be without two of their most influential players as they attempt to book a spot in their first European final since 2019.
Postecoglou also provided an update on Son’s condition, noting the South Korean forward has made some progress but remains doubtful for Thursday’s trip to Norway.
“Disappointing for Sonny as well,” said the Spurs boss. “He has progressed and there’s a possibility of him getting some game time at the weekend but he hasn’t trained with the team yet.”
While Son remains touch-and-go, there is better news on the fitness front with striker Dominic Solanke fit and available for the second leg. The England international had been a concern, but has travelled with the squad and is expected to feature.
European Glory in Sight
Tottenham’s 3-1 lead gives them a strong advantage heading into Thursday’s clash in Norway, but the absence of Maddison, who has been a driving force in their European campaign, casts a shadow over their chances. The former Leicester City star has tallied key goals and assists across the knockout stages, bringing creativity and composure to a team otherwise lacking in rhythm.
Spurs are chasing their first European trophy since lifting the UEFA Cup in 1984. They’re also looking to win their first piece of silverware in any competition since the 2008 League Cup—a drought that has grown increasingly painful for fans.
Despite sitting a disappointing 16th in the Premier League, their form in Europe has been something of a redemption arc. But with the season drawing to a close, pressure is mounting on Postecoglou to deliver something tangible.
One step from the #UELfinal in Bilbao pic.twitter.com/UYCzCReys7
— UEFA Europa League (@EuropaLeague) May 8, 2025
Vicario Calls for Unity
Goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario has called on his teammates to step up in Maddison and Son’s absence, saying the team has become accustomed to fighting through setbacks.
“We have to always deal with it to be fair. We will not have Sonny and Madders tomorrow, but it is on us,” Vicario said. “The importance of the entire squad will be crucial.”
The Italian shot-stopper has been one of the more consistent performers in what has otherwise been a rocky campaign. His words highlight the mentality Spurs will need to adopt as they head into what could be a defining night for the club.
Postecoglou Under Pressure
While Tottenham are still in the hunt for European silverware, uncertainty surrounds Postecoglou’s future. There have been growing whispers about whether he will be retained beyond the summer, with reports suggesting that failure to win a trophy—or at least secure European qualification—could lead to change at the top.
However, the Australian coach remains focused on the task at hand, emphasizing the need to manage challenges without excuses.
“This season’s been full of adversity. That’s not going to change now. We just keep going, keep fighting,” said Postecoglou.
Squad Depth to Be Tested
With Maddison and Son unavailable, the spotlight will now fall on other members of the squad to deliver. Players like Dejan Kulusevski, Bryan Gil, and Giovani Lo Celso could be called upon to fill the creative void. Meanwhile, Solanke will be expected to lead the line and carry the scoring burden.
Postecoglou has spoken often about building a “resilient” and “flexible” team, and Thursday’s match will be a litmus test for that philosophy.
If Tottenham can protect their advantage in a hostile environment and secure a place in the final, it would represent a rare bright spot in a season overshadowed by injuries and inconsistency.
Maddison’s absence may be a blow, but Spurs’ Europa League dream is still very much alive.
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