Tottenham Hotspur have strongly condemned the racist abuse aimed at Mathys Tel following the club’s UEFA Super Cup defeat to Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday.
The 19-year-old forward, who joined Spurs from Bayern Munich for £30 million this summer, faced a barrage of online hate after missing his penalty in the shoot-out.
In a firm statement, Tottenham expressed their anger and support for Tel.
“We are disgusted at the racial abuse that Mathys Tel has received on social media following last night’s UEFA Super Cup defeat,” the club said.
“Mathys showed bravery and courage to step forward and take a penalty, yet those who abuse him are nothing but cowards – hiding behind anonymous usernames and profiles to spout their abhorrent views.
“We will work with the authorities and social media platforms to take the strongest possible action against any individual we are able to identify.”
Racial abuse against Tel was disgusting
The racial abuse aimed at Tel was nothing short of disgraceful and disgusting. Tel replaced Mohammed Kudus in the 79th minute when Spurs were 2-0 up at the Stadio Friuli in Italy.
However, things took a dramatic turn in the dying embers of the game as PSG came from behind to salvage a draw and send the game to penalties.
Micky van de Ven missed his spot kick before Tel stepped up and sent his effort wide. In their attempt to blame someone, the ‘cowards’ singled out Tel and subjected him to scathing abuse on social media.
This is a recurring theme in English football that needs to be taken seriously. Tel is the latest player to be subjected to this idiocy that threatens the very fabric of the game.
Just last month, England women’s defender Jess Carter was forced to shut down her social media accounts after being racially abused during the 2025 Women’s European Championship.
Tottenham have pledged to assist the authorities in rooting out the ‘fans’ responsible and taking the strongest possible action against them.
They need to send a message to the entire football world – one that makes it crystal clear that there is no room for racism in the beautiful game.