Pape Sarr must use World Cup call-up as springboard to escape Tottenham nightmare

Pape Sarr has the perfect opportunity to earn a move away from Tottenham Hotspur instead of going down with the sinking ship.

Although Roberto De Zerbi has done a brilliant job of steering Spurs to safety since his arrival, there is no guarantee that the ongoing circus is instantly going to stop in North London.

Sadly for Sarr, he has been forced to watch most of the team’s failures from the bench, being handed just 13 starts in the Premier League, despite making a hugely positive impression last season.

Several Tottenham stars are likely to be eyeing exits this summer, and with the 2026 World Cup kicking off in a matter of weeks, the 23-year-old has a great chance to put himself in the shop window.

✈️ Tottenham Hotspur Transfer News ✈️

Breaking news on deals in progress, signings, departures, and contract news from the Spurs boardroom.

Sarr was a massively important player under Ange Postecoglou last season, notching six goals and two assists in 55 games across all competitions, but he has fought a losing battle for minutes this term.

De Zerbi was expected to snub Sarr upon his arrival, and that prediction has come true, only making the squad in four of the new manager’s six games in charge, and failing to get off the bench in one of them.

He should have grabbed the boss’ attention during the 2-1 defeat to Chelsea, grabbing the assist during his short cameo at Stamford Bridge, but the better idea would be to jump ship as soon as possible.

Although the midfielder also lacked minutes at the Africa Cup of Nations in December and January, he must make sure that he shines a light on himself and earns a summer transfer.

Supporters will not want to see Sarr walking through the exit doors this summer, but they may no choice, given the number of options currently at De Zerbi’s disposal.

Even Archie Gray is struggling for minutes, with Rodrigo Bentancur returning from injury, the experience of Joao Palhinha too much to turn down, and Conor Gallagher pushing Spurs up the pitch.

📋 La Liste des 28 Lions retenus par le sélectionneur national Pape Thiaw pour représenter le Sénégal à la Coupe du Monde 2026. #FIFAWC2026 #ListeGaideyi #DemBaJeex pic.twitter.com/lA7qkL9UfV

Football Insider understands that Bayern Munich are eyeing a reunion for Sarr with Harry Kane, though Real Madrid are also said to be interested in the midfielder’s services.

Relegation to the Championship would have all but confirmed his departure. But even with Premier League football secured, it will be no easy feat to keep hold of him.

Don’t Miss a Beat: Your Tottenham Hotspur Insider Access

Get the full story from the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and Hotspur Way with our dedicated expert hubs:

Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from N17 and Hotspur Way.