Destiny Udogie
TOT
Left Back
Possession Builder
Nov 28, 2002 (23)
Left
6'2"
161 lb
Could return next weekend
Udogie (knee) has been ruled out for Saturday's Premier League match against Chelsea but could return for next weekend's encounter against Crystal Palace, according to coach Roberto De Zerbi. "Destiny still feels pain. Maybe next week he can be available."
Analysis: Udogie continues to experience knee discomfort after sustaining an injury during Tottenham's 1-1 draw against Manchester United, which forced him to miss Monday's victory over Coventry City. The left-back will remain sidelined for Saturday's trip to Chelsea as a precautionary measure, extending his absence to two consecutive Premier League matches. However, his recovery appears to be progressing, with a potential return against Crystal Palace next weekend now being targeted. Andrew Robertson and Micky van de Ven could provide cover at left-back in his absence, while Udogie will aim to regain his starting role once fully fit.
Remains sidelined
Udogie (knee) remains unavailable for Saturday's Premier League clash against Chelsea as he continues recovering from a knee injury, according to coach Roberto De Zerbi. "Destiny is not available."
Analysis: Udogie remains sidelined after sustaining a knee injury during Tottenham's clash against Manchester United, when he was forced off after approximately 70 minutes. The Italian left-back subsequently missed Monday's match against Coventry City and has yet to recover sufficiently to return to contention. His latest setback has interrupted a season in which he had made just two Premier League starts before the injury. Andrew Robertson and Micky van de Ven remain alternatives at left-back while Udogie continues his recovery, with no definitive timeline established for his return.
Picks up knee problem
Udogie picked up a knee injury and isn't an option for Monday's game against Coventry City, according to manager Roberto De Zerbi. "[Destiny] Udogie played 70 minutes (against United) and he suffered a problem in his knee and we didn't take a risk."
Analysis: Udogie was making just his second start of the 2026/27 Premier League season in the previous match against Manchester United, but it remains to be seen how long he'll be sidelined for after this latest setback. Andrew Robertson and Micky van de Ven are capable of playing at left-back, so the position should be covered for the time being.
Looks sharp in training
Udogie has been training with Tottenham during the international break and looked sharp during this week's sessions, according to Football London.
Analysis: Udogie showed encouraging signs in training, making several driving runs down the left flank and scoring with a low finish during a small-sided exercise. The left-back has seen his Tottenham career disrupted by recurring injuries, making consistent fitness particularly important as he looks to establish himself under manager Roberto De Zerbi. Udogie appears well suited to the new manager's system and could form an attacking partnership with Savio on the left if he can put together a sustained run of availability.
Logs 57 minutes in return
Udogie (muscular) played 57 minutes in Tuesday's 3-1 Carabao Cup loss to Liverpool.
Analysis: Udogie returned directly to the starting XI against Liverpool and played 57 minutes before being withdrawn as Tottenham continued to manage his workload following the muscular issue. Getting through nearly an hour represents a positive step after his brief absence, and the left-back should be in position to start again Saturday against Aston Villa. Andrew Robertson remains an alternative on the left if manager Roberto De Zerbi opts to manage Udogie's minutes further.
Available against Liverpool
Udogie (muscular) is available for Tuesday's Carabao Cup clash against Liverpool, according to coach Roberto De Zerbi. "Udogie yes"
Analysis: Udogie returns after missing Saturday's match against Everton with a minor muscular problem, making his absence limited to one game. Manager Roberto De Zerbi has emphasized the need to manage the left-back's workload following his injury issues last season, so his minutes could continue to be monitored even after being cleared to return. Andrew Robertson provides another option at left-back.
Sidelined by minor muscular issue
Udogie is out of Saturday's Premier League fixture against Everton with a minor muscular problem, having been listed as a doubt Friday, according to head coach Roberto De Zerbi. "Last season (he) suffered many injuries, he played 60 minutes in Nottingham and we have to manage also Destiny in the best way we can,"
Analysis: Udogie misses out with a minor muscular problem, and the surrounding context is as relevant as the injury, given Roberto De Zerbi has openly framed his selection as a management exercise after a 2026 marked by repeated fitness issues. Summer signing Andrew Robertson provides direct cover at left-back, so Tottenham are not short in the position.
Draws first league start
Udogie started and went 61 minutes in Saturday's scoreless draw against Nottingham Forest, producing two fouls drawn and a yellow card.
Analysis: Udogie ramped up his minutes the first few weeks of the season and it seems like the plan will be for him to be the regular starter at left-back this season. However, Andrew Robertson still may be a safer option for Roberto De Zerbi. If Udogie can stay fit, his numbers should look a little better than the no shots or crosses he posted in the draw against Nottingham Forest.
Zero preseason minutes
Udogie is not part of Tottenham's squad to face Hoffenheim, finishing preseason with no minutes played, the club announced.
Analysis: Udogie had been absent from training for a stretch earlier in preseason, though coach Roberto De Zerbi downplayed any concern over the issue at the time, describing it as precautionary, and his continued absence from matchday squads leaves his readiness for the season opener in question. Andrew Robertson is expected to start at left back against Brentford, with Udogie likely to begin the season on the bench even if he's fully available. Udogie is expected to be reassessed as the club approaches the start of the season.
Held out as a precaution
Udogie has been absent from training for five days, though coach Roberto De Zerbi downplayed any concern over the issue, according to Football London. "He's not working the last five days, I think, like Maddison, but they have not a big problem, just to stay focused, don't take any risks"
Analysis: Udogie's situation reflects a cautious approach from the coaching staff as Tottenham look ahead to their upcoming friendly against Sydney FC. No details on the specific nature of the issue have been provided. The defender is expected to be back in full training shortly as preseason continues.
Starting Sunday
Udogie (strain) is in the starting XI for Sunday's match against Aston Villa.
Analysis: Udogie was only just cleared for play, and despite it appearing he could only play a few minutes this match, he is already in the starting XI. That said, he will likely come off the field at some point, not playing the full 90. Now that he is fit, he and Djed Spence will likely continue to split time at left-back.
Option for minutes
Udogie (strain) is an option for Sunday's match against Aston Villa, according to manager Roberto De Zerbi. Udogie can be available, yes. I don't know if that's the beginning of the game or the second half, but he's available, yes."
Analysis: Udogie is one of the few Spurs trending in the right direction this week after an absence in the last match, as he is set to return facing Villa. However, it is unknown if he can play from the start of the contest, potentially being eased in off the bench. As a player who has been on and off the injury list all season, it is a good sign that he could finish the season fit, a starting left-back when fit.
Out with muscle injury
Udogie is out for Saturday's match against Wolves due to a muscle injury, according to manager Roberto De Zerbi. "Yeah, Destiny has a (muscular) problem. I think he can't play tomorrow. I'm sorry, because he played a great first half, the second half as well, but the first one was great. I hope [Destiny] can be available next week at Villa Park."
Analysis: Udogie is not going to play Saturday as he needs time to recover from a knock, suffering a muscle injury this week. This is a tough blow for the defender after consecutive starts, appearing to be getting a role back in the team after just returning from a previous injury. This will leave the flank open for Djed Spence and Souza to come in, as the club will now hope Udogie can play in their next contest as they try to avoid a dreaded relegation.
Uncertain to play vs. Wolves
Udogie (undisclosed) is considered a doubt for Saturday's game at Wolverhampton, according to Tom Barclay of The Sun.
Analysis: Udogie has had a number of fitness issues this season, but he's started both of the Spurs' games since the appointment of Roberto De Zerbi as manager. If Udogie is unable to play Saturday, then Djed Spence would probably get the start at left-back in a must-win game for Spurs given their situation in the standings.
Bench option
Udogie (hamstring) is on the bench for Wednesday's match against Atletico Madrid.
Analysis: Udogie was back in training this week, and that has led to his return Wednesday, earning a spot on the bench. The defender is likely to build up some minutes before he returns to a starting role at left-back, as injuries have been a constant issue, with Djed Spence starting at left-back for the time being.
Trains with team Tuesday
Udogie (hamstring) was spotted back in team training Tuesday, according to Matt Verri from The Standard.
Analysis: Udogie has missed the last six games with a hamstring issue but looks back on track after returning to team training Tuesday and is now pushing for a comeback in the upcoming fixtures. Coach Igor Tudor confirmed he will be an option against Nottingham Forest in the next Premier League clash but the defender could also be in the mix for Wednesday's second-leg showdown against Atletico in the Champions League. Until he is fully back to match fitness, Djed Spence is expected to keep holding down the starting role on the left side of the back line.
Closing in on return
Udogie (hamstring) is closing in on a return and "for sure" should be back to face Nottingham Forest on Sunday, March 22 before the international break, according to manager Igor Tudor.
Analysis: Udogie will miss the trip to Liverpool this Sunday, and he's expected to return to action in the Spurs' final game before the international break -- a true six-pointer in the relegation race against Nottingham Forest. The absence of Udogie means Djed Spence has been playing at left wing-back in Tudor's 3-4-3 system.
Facing four to five weeks out
Udogie is out for the next four to five weeks due to a hamstring injury, according to manager Thomas Frank. "Unfortunately, Destiny has a hamstring injury. So he's out for the next 4-5 weeks."
Analysis: Udogie was doubtful for Tuesday due to a hamstring injury, but is now facing a longer absence, as he will miss close to a month due to the injury. This is a major loss for the club who is already thin in the defense due to injuries and suspensions, now without another full-back for a bit. The good news is that Djed Spence (calf) is set for a return in their coming games, likely leaving him and Archie Gray as options on the flank of the defense for the time being.
Hamstring injury feared
Udogie (hamstring) is in doubt for Tuesday's clash with Newcastle and is set for assessment, per manager Thomas Frank."We will assess him tomorrow. So, of course, I will probably see you guys in, what, two days' time or less, and then we'll know more. We'll assess him tomorrow,"
Analysis: Udogie returned from injury to start during Saturday's loss to Manchester United, but is now in doubt. He came off injured in that match and had to be replaced by Souza. That leaves Tottenham in a heavy injury crisis ahead of a tough run of fixtures.
Limped off against United
Udogie (undisclosed) limped off the pitch in the 55th minute of Saturday's 2-0 defeat against Manchester United, according to The Spurs Web.
Analysis: Udogie was forced off just before the hour mark with an undisclosed issue during Saturday's clash against Manchester United, likely tied to his recent muscle problems. The defender will be evaluated in the coming days to determine the severity of the issue and whether he will need time on the sidelines. Souza came on in his place to log his first minutes with the Spurs and could be in line for a larger role if Udogie is sidelined for an extended stretch.
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