Tottenham Hotspur forward Richarlison has publicly demanded respect regarding his future at the club in an emotional social media statement. The Brazilian confirmed discussions over a potential return to Everton but insisted he will remain at Spurs if no agreement is reached between the clubs.
This development comes as Tottenham sit bottom of the Premier League table after two matches, having lost both games without scoring a goal. Roberto De Zerbi's side are already six points behind early leaders Manchester City and face a key away fixture against Nottingham Forest on September 5th. Talks between Tottenham and Everton occurred on Sunday night, with separate discussions covering both Richarlison's potential return and a proposed move for Iliman Ndiaye, who ultimately joined Manchester City.
Richarlison posted a lengthy statement on Instagram addressing the speculation surrounding his next move. He expressed frustration with how negotiations have been conducted and asserted his desire for control over his career decisions. "After everything I’ve been through in the last few years, I’ve decided that never again will anyone decide my future for me," Richarlison said. He emphasized his commitment to acting in Tottenham's best interests, stating, "I’ve always made it clear, every time I had the chance, that leaving for another club would only happen if it was also good for the club."
The 29-year-old forward made clear his continued professionalism despite the uncertainty. "Despite all this turmoil, I am under contract at Spurs and will remain at the club’s disposal," he wrote. Richarlison also directly addressed the club's hierarchy, saying, "I hope they treat my situation with the same respect I’ve always shown Spurs and everyone who worked with me during this period." He concluded with a firm instruction: "Just don’t try to decide for me."
Spurs manager Roberto De Zerbi provided context for Richarlison's absence from the matchday squad for Saturday's 2-0 home defeat to Newcastle United. Speaking after the game, De Zerbi stated the player was omitted because "too many times he asked to leave." This public explanation appears to have prompted Richarlison's detailed response on social media.
The situation unfolds against a difficult start to the season for Tottenham. The team has conceded five goals in their opening two matches while failing to score any themselves, leaving them with a minus five goal difference.
Richarlison played a significant role in Tottenham's recent campaign, scoring 12 goals during the 2025-26 season. His contributions were vital in helping the club maintain its Premier League status. The Brazilian has also been open about his personal challenges, speaking candidly in the past about his mental health struggles during his time in North London.
In his statement, Richarlison reflected on his commitment during the previous season. "I stayed and gave everything," he wrote, referencing his efforts to help the team. His potential departure would represent a notable change for a squad already adapting to De Zerbi's methods and trying to climb from the bottom of the standings.
Richarlison outlined the conditions for any transfer, stating, "If they reach an agreement between Spurs and Everton, I will return to my beloved club." He expressed disappointment with how negotiations have been handled, noting, "My intention was to go back to the place where I was very happy, yes, but the negotiations happened only in the way certain people wanted, and it will no longer be like that."
For now, the forward remains a Tottenham player under contract. His immediate focus will be on regaining match fitness and potentially reintegrating into the squad ahead of the trip to face Nottingham Forest. Forest currently occupy 15th position in the table, making the September 5th encounter an early opportunity for Tottenham to secure their first points of the season. Fans can view the full schedule on our fixtures page.
