Yves Bissouma among 11 players released by Tottenham as major summer clear-out begins

Tottenham Hotspur have officially launched a significant squad overhaul after confirming the departure of 11 players whose contracts have expired following a disappointing 2025-26 campaign.

Former Brighton midfielder Yves Bissouma headlines the list as Spurs begin reshaping the squad ahead of a crucial new era under Thomas Frank.

Bissouma’s Tottenham spell comes to an end

Bissouma leaves north London after four seasons at the club, having joined Tottenham from Brighton in the summer of 2022.

The Mali international made 111 appearances across all competitions and was an important figure during several stages of his Spurs career. Although he scored only two goals, his energy and ball-winning ability often made him a key component of the midfield.

One of the highlights of his Tottenham career came in 2025 when he played the full 90 minutes in the Europa League final victory over Manchester United, helping the club secure European silverware.

However, his final season proved far less successful.

After returning from injury in January, Bissouma managed just 11 appearances throughout the 2025-26 campaign as his role within the squad diminished significantly.

Disciplinary issues damaged his standing

Bissouma’s relationship with the club reportedly deteriorated during Thomas Frank’s first season in charge.

Reports suggested the midfielder repeatedly arrived late for training sessions, frustrating members of the coaching staff and leading to disciplinary action.

The 28-year-old was notably omitted from Tottenham’s UEFA Super Cup squad for their clash against Paris Saint-Germain and was later left out of the club’s Champions League squad list.

The midfielder had previously faced disciplinary issues under former manager Ange Postecoglou, who suspended him after a social media video appeared to show him inhaling laughing gas.

Ultimately, a combination of fitness concerns, inconsistent performances and off-field issues contributed to Tottenham’s decision not to offer him a new contract.

Six academy players also depart

The clear-out extends beyond the first-team squad.

Tottenham have confirmed that six players from the Under-21 Development Squad will leave the club following the expiry of their contracts:

• Pele Arganese-McDermott
• Tyrell Ashcroft
• Leo Black
• Dante Cassanova
• Matthew Craig
• Calum Logan

Among those departing, Craig was the longest-serving player, having progressed through the academy since Under-12 level. He made his senior debut against Leeds United during the final match of the 2022-23 Premier League season.

More exits in the youth ranks

Further departures have been confirmed within Tottenham’s Under-18 setup.

Jamel Beggs, Samal Bangura and Leon Myrtaj will all leave the club after not being offered professional contracts.

The trio were members of the youth squad that lifted the Under-17 Premier League Cup during the 2024-25 season but will now continue their careers elsewhere.

Meanwhile, Elijah Upson has also departed after turning down a new contract offer from Tottenham in search of first-team opportunities away from the club.

A summer of change at Spurs

The departures underline Tottenham’s determination to reset following a difficult campaign that fell short of expectations.

While several academy players are moving on as part of the club’s annual retention process, Bissouma’s exit represents the most significant senior departure so far and could be the first of several major changes before the transfer window closes.

With Thomas Frank overseeing a rebuild, Tottenham’s squad could look very different by the time the new season begins.