Quick Read
- Wilson Odobert started for Tottenham Hotspur against Manchester United in the Premier League on February 7, 2026.
- He was one of three changes made by head coach Thomas Frank, replacing Randal Kolo Muani.
- Odobert, 21, returned to action after missing the previous match against Manchester City due to illness.
- He has praised Thomas Frank for building a relationship of trust and improving his game this season.
- The French attacker has 5 assists and 2 goals in 31 appearances this campaign, including 3 assists in recent back-to-back games.
MANCHESTER (Azat TV) – Wilson Odobert returned to Tottenham Hotspur’s starting lineup for their crucial Premier League fixture against Manchester United on Saturday, February 7, 2026. The 21-year-old French attacker was named by head coach Thomas Frank as part of three significant changes to the squad, underscoring his increasing importance to the North London club after overcoming a recent illness.
Odobert’s inclusion comes as Tottenham seeks to extend their unbeaten run to five matches across all competitions, following a 2-2 draw with Manchester City last Sunday. The match at Old Trafford marks a pivotal moment for both teams, with Manchester United under caretaker boss Michael Carrick looking to continue their strong form, while Spurs aim for their first league victory of 2026.
Odobert’s Return to the Tottenham Lineup
Tottenham head coach Thomas Frank confirmed Wilson Odobert’s place in the starting XI against Manchester United, making him one of three changes to the team that faced Manchester City. Odobert, who had been sidelined due to illness for the City game, was given the green light to start, replacing Randal Kolo Muani in attack. The other changes saw Micky van de Ven return at centre-back for Radu Dragusin and Pape Matar Sarr come into midfield ahead of Yves Bissouma.
The team lined up in a 3-4-3 formation, with Guglielmo Vicario in goal, a back three of Joao Palhinha, captain Cristian Romero, and Micky van de Ven. Archie Gray and Destiny Udogie were deployed as wing-backs, while Conor Gallagher and Pape Matar Sarr anchored the midfield. Upfront, Odobert was positioned as the right-sided number 10, alongside Xavi Simons, supporting Dominic Solanke as the central striker, as reported by Football.London and Flashscore.
This selection highlights Frank’s faith in Odobert, particularly after his impactful second-half performance against Manchester City, despite his prior illness. The decision also reflects a tactical reshuffle aimed at injecting fresh energy and creativity into Tottenham’s attack against a Manchester United side that has shown improved form under Michael Carrick.
Trust with Thomas Frank and Recent Form
Wilson Odobert has openly praised Thomas Frank, acknowledging the strong relationship and trust they have built, which he credits for his improved performance on the pitch. In an interview for Tottenham’s matchday programme, Odobert stated, ‘We have a good relationship. He trusts me and I feel that trust. It’s by having that close, trustable relationship that I’m able to feel freer out on the pitch and do things I’m capable of.’
After a debut season at Spurs marred by hamstring issues, the young Frenchman has made a significant impact this campaign, accumulating 31 appearances so far. His contributions include five assists and two goals, with a notable surge in confidence in recent weeks. Odobert provided three assists in back-to-back games against Borussia Dortmund and Burnley, showcasing his ability to deliver key passes and influence critical matches.
His performance against Borussia Dortmund was particularly lauded, featuring two assists, which Odobert himself recognized as a vital game for the team to regain its winning mentality. He emphasized his desire to continue improving both personally and for the team’s success, stating his focus on increasing his statistics and contributing as much as possible, especially with Tottenham having exited both domestic cup competitions.
Odobert’s Career Path and Future Ambitions
Wilson Odobert’s journey to Tottenham Hotspur has been a varied one, starting in the prestigious youth system of Paris Saint-Germain, where he honed his technical and tactical skills. He then moved to Troyes, part of the City Football Group, before making a switch to the Premier League with newly-promoted Burnley under then-coach Vincent Kompany. His impressive performances at Burnley earned him the transfer to Tottenham, where he has now surpassed half a century of appearances for the North London club.
Reflecting on his early career, Odobert highlighted his time at PSG as foundational, stating, ‘I learned a lot both technically and tactically which has helped me become who I am today, so it was a really good experience.’ He also acknowledged the initial difficulties of adapting to life in England, including the language barrier and being away from his family, but affirmed his successful integration: ‘But now I’ve settled in well and adapting well to English, to the Premier League. I think I’m maturing and have come a long way.’
Looking ahead, Odobert remains focused on continuous improvement and contributing to Tottenham’s objectives. He recognizes the importance of statistics in modern football but prioritizes helping the team achieve the highest possible position in the Premier League table. His commitment to growth and his established trust with Thomas Frank position him as a key player in Tottenham’s ongoing campaign.
Wilson Odobert’s consistent growth and his ability to quickly re-integrate into the starting lineup after illness, combined with his explicit acknowledgment of Thomas Frank’s trust, highlight his evolving role from a promising young talent to a critical component of Tottenham’s attacking strategy and overall team cohesion.