LIVE
...

Follow us on

News

Alderweireld explains why he left Tottenham this summer

Toby Alderweireld has revealed the true reason he left Tottenham Hotspur this summer.

What’s the story?

During his press conference in Belgium, via , the central defender said he was spending no time with his kids.

Alderweireld also confirmed that there were financial reasons for his departure from the Lilywhites.

The Belgium international departed the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium for Qatari outfit Al-Duhail for .

It brought to an end his six-year stay in north London. Alderweireld made over 200 appearances for the team, finishing second-place twice in the Premier League.

He did not manage to lift a trophy during his stay in N17, but he did reach two finals, including the League Cup.

Speaking about his exit, the 32-year-old claimed seeing his kids was a reason for him leaving.

When talking about why he left Tottenham, Alderweireld said: “Well, I could hardly refuse this adventure. Also financially, of course, I will not be silly about that.

“I have two children and at Tottenham, I saw them very little. That hurt more and more. In Qatar, I will see them more and that is very important to me. I want to see my children grow up and that can be done much better at my current club.”

Photo by Tottenham Hotspur FC/Tottenham Hotspur FC via Getty Images
Photo by Tottenham Hotspur FC/Tottenham Hotspur FC via Getty Images

Alderweireld justified in his reasoning

It is hard to look at the reason Alderweireld has stated for leaving Tottenham and criticize him.

Beyond football, there is a wider world, and sometimes there are bigger things than kicking a ball.

However, it is also refreshing to hear the Belgian admit the financial offer was far too good to turn down.

Honesty is not the norm in football, so at least Spurs fans have a real reason for him departing.

Aside from outside factors, Tottenham needed to move on the veteran defender.

Last season was a stark reminder of just how far the ace had fallen. His performances for the team were far from desirable and a transfer suited all parties.

Meanwhile, fans were reacting to Emerson Royal’s new number.