Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou did not hold back in his criticism of Timo Werner following the German forward’s lackluster performance during the club’s 1-1 Europa League draw against Rangers. Werner, who started the match, was substituted at halftime after a series of errors and ineffectiveness on the pitch.
The former Chelsea striker’s struggles have added to Tottenham’s woes, with the team managing only one win in their last eight matches in all competitions. Timo Werner’s inability to meet expectations has put additional pressure on Spurs’ already stretched attacking options.
Timo Werner’s Ineffective Display Draws Criticism
Timo Werner’s performance at Ibrox left much to be desired, as he lost possession 16 times, failed to win any of his five duels, and completed just 69% of his passes. The lack of impact prompted former Rangers striker Steven Thompson, who was covering the game for BBC Sportsound, to describe Werner’s decision-making as “abysmal.”
By halftime, Thompson’s prediction of Werner being substituted proved accurate. Ange Postecoglou replaced him with Dejan Kulusevski, who later salvaged a point for Spurs with a 75th-minute equalizer. Despite the draw, Postecoglou expressed his dissatisfaction, saying:
“When you’ve got 18-year-olds [in the squad], it [that performance] is not acceptable to me. I said that to Timo; he’s a German international.”
The manager emphasized the need for senior players to step up, particularly with forwards Richarlison and Wilson Odobert sidelined due to injuries.
Struggles Continue for Timo Werner at Spurs
Since rejoining Leipzig on loan in January, Timo Werner has struggled to regain his form. Initially signed on a loan deal for the second half of the 2023–24 season, the agreement was extended to cover this campaign. However, his statistics paint a disappointing picture: two goals in 14 games last season and just one goal in 19 appearances this season.
Timo Werner’s poor performances have also impacted his market value. Spurs initially had the option to sign him for £15 million, but the price has now dropped to £8.5 million. Despite being a prolific scorer for Germany with 24 goals in 57 caps, Werner has not represented his national team since March 2023.
Ange Postecoglou Demands Accountability
Ange Postecoglou’s frustration with Timo Werner underscores the wider challenges facing Tottenham. With limited attacking depth, the manager needs every player to contribute consistently.
“In the moment we’re in right now — it’s not like we’ve got many options — I need everyone to at least be going out there and trying to give the best of themselves,” Postecoglou said. “His performance in the first half wasn’t acceptable.”
The Australian manager further noted that he expects a higher level of performance from senior players, especially during a difficult stretch for the team.
What’s Next for Timo Werner and Spurs?
Tottenham’s reliance on a struggling Timo Werner highlights the challenges of their current campaign. With just one win in their last eight matches, the pressure is mounting on Ange Postecoglou to turn the team’s fortunes around.
For Timo Werner, the path forward is unclear. His stint at Spurs has not lived up to expectations, and his declining confidence on the pitch is evident. As Tottenham continues to battle on multiple fronts, it remains to be seen whether the German forward can rediscover his form and justify his place in the squad.
The draw at Ibrox may have secured a point, but it has also raised serious questions about the depth and quality of Tottenham’s attack, particularly as the Europa League campaign progresses.
