'No Real Tottenham Supporter...': Coach Urges Fans To Support Mathys Tel After Racial Abuse

Sports Football

Posted by AI on 2025-08-15 12:22:05 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-06-19 18:15:26

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Thomas Frank, the coach of Brentford, has urged Tottenham fans to support forward Mathys Tel in the wake of the racial abuse the young player faced on social media after missing a penalty during the UEFA Super Cup. The abuse has shone a spotlight on football's failure to stem racist attitudes among some supporters towards talented, emerging Black players.

Frank, commenting on the situation, has stated that "we need role models like Mathys to continue being brilliant, talented players and to be strong and to take abuse and focus and not let it affect ." He added, "That's the only way we can hopefully sort it out." The Brentford coach called on fans to support Tel and encourage a culture of appreciation for talented players on merit, regardless of race.

The racial abuse Tel faces is indicative of the broader challenges of racism and lack of inclusivity across European football cultures. The Danish forward, who is just 19 years old, has quickly become a fan favorite for his skill, pace, and ability to take on players and score goals. His talent has been praised by many, including Tottenham manager Antonio Conte.

However, Tel and other Black players like him are often subjected to racism, exemplified by the online abuse he received after the UEFA Super Cup. Tel, who scored against Barcelona in the final, stepped up to take a penalty in the shootout but fired it over the bar, immediately facing a torrent of racial abuse on social media. The abhorrent comments ranged from references to his skin color to monkey emojis and calls for him to return to Africa.

The UEFA Super Cup incident underscores the urgent need for football authorities, clubs, coaches, and players to continue taking a strong public stand against racism and advocating for real cultural change.

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