Tel shares that Postecoglou called him while he was getting a haircut to convince him to join Spurs

 

NOT EVERYTHING WAS PERFECT!" - MATHYS TEL SHARES HOW ANGE POSTECOGLOU CALLED HIM DURING A HAIRCUT TO PERSUADE HIM TO JOIN TOTTENHAM AFTER HIS DEPARTURE FROM BAYERN

In the world of football, transfer sagas often come with their fair share of drama, intrigue, and unexpected twists. But for young French talent Tel, his move to Tottenham Hotspur was sealed in a moment that was as surreal as it was personal. In a recent interview, the rising star revealed that Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou personally called him while he was in the middle of getting a haircut to convince him to join the North London club.

The story, which has since gone viral, offers a fascinating glimpse into the lengths managers go to secure their top targets—and how a simple phone call can change the course of a player’s career.

The Haircut That Changed Everything

Tel, who has been widely regarded as one of the most promising young players in Europe, was enjoying a routine day off when his phone rang. “I was just sitting in the barber’s chair, minding my own business,” Tel recalled with a laugh. “Then my phone buzzed, and I saw it was an unknown number. I almost didn’t pick up, but something told me to answer.”

On the other end of the line was none other than Ange Postecoglou, the charismatic Tottenham manager who has been making waves in the Premier League since his arrival. “He introduced himself and said he wanted to talk to me about joining Spurs,” Tel shared. “At first, I was a bit shocked. I mean, who expects a call like that while they’re getting a haircut?”

Postecoglou’s Personal Touch

What followed was a conversation that left a lasting impression on the young forward. Postecoglou, known for his ability to connect with players on a personal level, didn’t just sell Tel on the club’s ambitions or tactical vision—he spoke to him about his own journey and how he saw Tel fitting into the Spurs family.

“He didn’t just talk about football,” Tel explained. “He asked me about my goals, my family, and what I wanted to achieve in my career. He told me he believed in me and that he wanted to help me grow as a player and as a person. It wasn’t just a manager talking to a player; it felt like a mentor talking to a student.”

The conversation lasted nearly 20 minutes, with Tel’s barber patiently waiting in the background. “My barber was laughing the whole time,” Tel joked. “He kept saying, ‘This is the most interesting haircut I’ve ever done!’”

Why Spurs Stood Out

For Tel, the call was a turning point. While he had received interest from several top clubs, it was Postecoglou’s personal approach that made Tottenham stand out. “A lot of clubs talk about their history or their facilities, but Ange made it about me,” Tel said. “He made me feel like I wasn’t just another signing—I was someone he genuinely wanted to work with and develop.”

Tel also praised Postecoglou’s vision for the team, which aligns with his own ambitions. “He wants to play attacking, exciting football, and he wants young players to be at the heart of it,” Tel explained. “That’s exactly the kind of environment I want to be in. I want to play with freedom and express myself, and I feel like Spurs is the perfect place for that.”

A New Chapter in North London

Since joining Tottenham, Tel has quickly become a fan favorite, showcasing his flair, creativity, and eye for goal. His performances have already drawn comparisons to some of the game’s greats, and at just 18 years old, he has the world at his feet.

Reflecting on that fateful phone call, Tel admits it still feels surreal. “Sometimes I think about it and laugh,” he said. “I was just getting a haircut, and now I’m here, living my dream. It just goes to show that you never know when an opportunity will come your way.”

As for Postecoglou, the story is yet another example of why he’s regarded as one of the most personable and effective managers in the game. By taking the time to connect with Tel on a personal level, he not only secured a top talent but also demonstrated the kind of leadership that inspires loyalty and trust.