Igor Tudor has said that Tottenham Hotspur’s top priority this season is staying in the Premier League ahead of their UEFA Champions League Round of 16 first leg clash against Atletico Madrid on Tuesday.
Spurs have endured a disappointing campaign so far and are winless in the Premier League in 2026, which has seen them drop to the 17th position on the standings, just one point above the drop zone.
Despite their poor league form, they have been impressive in Europe and even finished in the top eight to earn a bye to the Round of 16.
The Europa League champions have won just two games this year, both in the Champions League and will be eyeing a third in Tuesday’s encounter.
While Tudor maintains that Premier League survival is the club’s priority this season, he believes the clash against Atletico Madrid offers the perfect opportunity for the team to build some momentum after their recent poor run of results.
“I agree with both things. As I said, focus on us, playing a team who has a story in this Champions League, what they have experienced, they have quality”, Tudor admitted.
“We need to do our best in terms that we need to grow, as you said also because our first aim is the Premier League, this needs to be said publicly.
This is a normal thing that this (Champions League) is something extra, but that doesn’t mean that we don’t want to pass to the next round.”
Tottenham will welcome back captain Cristian Romero, while Djed Spence is also in contention to play.
Brazilian forward Richarlison is expected to start as well, as the North London club eye a crucial advantage in the first leg clash.
“Of course, it’s very important. It’s important. We have to grow, so it can be an opportunity. A totally different mentality can be used in this kind of game. Maybe this can help us to see which problems we have”, the former Juventus boss added.
“I believe that these kinds of games can help us to switch in the right way, but always focus on us, to grow as a team, to do things better and that’s the point”, Tudor concluded.
Tottenham face Atletico on Tuesday, before another tough clash against Premier League champions Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday.
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
