Published: 04 August ‘2025 | The English Chronicle Desk
Tottenham Hotspur’s pre-season preparations took a grim turn on Sunday as midfielder James Maddison was stretchered off with what is feared to be a serious knee injury during their 1-1 draw against Newcastle United in Seoul, South Korea.
The 28-year-old England international, known for his creativity and control in midfield, collapsed without contact just seven minutes before full-time, instantly raising concerns on the Tottenham bench. The match, which was otherwise marked by celebration and camaraderie, ended with a somber tone as Maddison was visibly in pain, needing immediate medical attention.
Spurs’ head coach Thomas Frank addressed the situation after the match, revealing that the injury appears to be to the same knee that kept Maddison out of the previous season’s Europa League final against Manchester United. His absence was already felt during that crucial fixture, and now Tottenham fans face the possibility of a long spell without one of their most influential players.
“Sometimes in life and football things can be both beautiful and brutal,” Frank reflected during the post-match press conference. “That’s what we got today. It looks like with Madders a bad injury and then on the other side unbelievable scenes for Son from his team-mates and the respect from the Newcastle players. We’re pretty sure it was the same knee he injured before.”
The emotional weight of the moment was heightened as club icon Son Heung-min—making his final appearance for Tottenham—watched his long-time teammate being taken off. Son, who has been a beloved figure both in North London and across Asia, was seen visibly emotional on the pitch, surrounded by teammates and opponents alike offering their respects and encouragement. The contrast of celebration and despair encapsulated the unpredictable nature of football.
The match itself started brightly for Spurs, with Wales international Brennan Johnson scoring a lively opener within just four minutes of kick-off. Newcastle responded before the break through Harvey Barnes, another former Leicester player, who calmly slotted home the equaliser seven minutes before halftime.
While the final score may have suggested balance on the field, the aftermath clearly tilted toward concern and uncertainty for Tottenham. With the Premier League season looming, the club now faces a potentially critical void in midfield—one they hoped to avoid after Maddison’s injury woes last term.
As fans wait anxiously for a full diagnosis, all eyes will be on Maddison’s recovery timeline and how the Spurs’ management plans to cope with his absence, if confirmed.
