Tottenham Hotspur Announces Pre-Season Squad Numbers: New Signings Vuskovic and Takai Get Temporary Assignments
Tottenham Hotspur has officially confirmed the pre-season squad numbers, with new arrivals Luka Vuskovic and Kota Takai receiving temporary assignments. The announcement came on Friday, July 18, 2025, as the team prepares for its pre-season campaign.
Vuskovic and Takai Don Temporary Numbers Ahead of Pre-Season Debut
Defensive newcomers Luka Vuskovic and Kota Takai will wear numbers 80 and 81, respectively, during the pre-season. These numbers are temporary, suggesting that their permanent squad numbers for the 2025/26 season will be confirmed at a later date. The final decision may depend on whether they remain with the first team or are loaned out for further development.
Mohammed Kudus Set to Wear Number 20 for the Upcoming Season
Mohammed Kudus, the recent acquisition from West Ham United, has been assigned the number 20 shirt. This will be his official squad number for the 2025/26 campaign, indicating his expected role in the team's plans.
Existing Players Retain Their Previous Squad Numbers
Most of Tottenham's existing players will continue to wear the same numbers they had last season, ensuring continuity within the squad.
Pre-Season Campaign Kicks Off Against Reading
Tottenham's pre-season begins on Saturday, July 19, with a match against Reading at the Select Car Leasing Stadium. This game is anticipated to feature debuts from several new signings, including Vuskovic, Takai, and Kudus, giving fans their first glimpse of the new-look squad.
Key Dates in Tottenham's Pre-Season Schedule
The pre-season schedule includes several important dates:
- July 8, 2025: Tottenham officially announced the signing of Kota Takai from Kawasaki Frontale on a five-year contract.
- July 18, 2025: Tottenham Hotspur officially confirmed pre-season squad numbers.
- July 19, 2025: First pre-season friendly against Reading (3 PM UK kick-off).
- August 13, 2025: Tottenham will face Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Super Cup final in Udine, Italy.
- August 16, 2025: Tottenham begins their Premier League campaign with a home match against Burnley.
Stakeholders in Tottenham's Squad Decisions
Several key figures and groups are involved in the decisions surrounding the squad:
- Tottenham Hotspur Football Club: Responsible for managing the squad, transfers, and official announcements.
- Thomas Frank (Manager): Overseeing pre-season preparations and integrating new signings, with his decisions influencing the future of players like Vuskovic and Takai.
- Luka Vuskovic (Centre-back): A promising Croatian defender making his first appearance with the team after agreeing to join Tottenham nearly two years prior.
- Kota Takai (Centre-back): A 20-year-old Japan international defender recently signed from Kawasaki Frontale, aiming to impress during pre-season.
- Mohammed Kudus (Midfielder/Forward): A significant signing from West Ham United, expected to play a key role in the upcoming season.
- Fans: Eagerly awaiting the impact of new signings and the confirmation of squad numbers for jersey purchases.
Official Statements Clarify Temporary Nature of Squad Numbers
Tottenham Hotspur's official statement highlighted that the numbers worn during pre-season might not reflect the finalized squad numbers for the 2025/26 season. The club stated, "Supporters should note, however, that the numbers worn by our players during pre-season may not be representative of their finalised squad numbers for 2025/26. We shall provide further information on this in due course." This emphasizes that high numbers for players like Vuskovic and Takai are provisional.
Takai's Transfer Fee Revealed
Reports indicate that Kota Takai joined Tottenham for a transfer fee of approximately £5 million.
Speculation Surrounds Loan Possibilities for Young Defenders
The assignment of high squad numbers to young defenders such as Vuskovic and Takai typically generates discussion among fans. It raises questions about whether these players will immediately integrate into the first team or be loaned out to gain more experience.
Pre-Season Significance in Determining Player Roles
The pre-season matches, starting with the game against Reading, are crucial for Thomas Frank to assess his squad and for new signings to demonstrate their abilities. Their performances could significantly influence their final squad numbers and roles for the upcoming season.
Increased Competition for Defensive Positions
With multiple new defensive signings, there will be heightened competition for places, particularly at centre-back. This could lead to loan moves for some of the younger players if they are not deemed ready for regular first-team football, impacting squad depth and player development.
