Defensive midfielder Yves Bissouma (28, Tottenham), who sparked a “laughing gas” controversy ahead of the start of the 2024-2025 English Premier League (EPL) season, has been disciplined internally. “He has to rebuild his credibility,” said Tottenham manager Enzi Postecoglou, 59.
“He has to be responsible as a football player,” Postecoglou said at a press conference ahead of the EPL opener, according to Football London. We have disciplined him. He will not play in the opening game.”
Tottenham will open their EPL campaign against Leicester City at the King Power Stadium in Leicester, England, on April 20 at 4 p.m.
Bissouma was recently embroiled in controversy after inhaling “hippie crack,” widely known as “laughing gas,” during a preseason friendly against Bayern Munich.
Hippie crack, also known as “laughing gas” or “happy balloon,” is a balloon filled with nitrous oxide (N20) that can produce narcotic-like effects when abused. It can also have terrible side effects, including brain damage and muscle damage. This hippie crack has been considered a criminal offense in the UK since 2023 and is punishable by up to two years in prison.
Apparently unaware of the seriousness of this behavior, Bisuma filmed himself snorting hippie crack at a club. He then posted it on social media.
Bisuma apologized shortly after the controversy broke.
“I want to apologize for the video, it was a lapse in judgment. I understood (only now) how serious this is and how high the health risks involved are. He take my responsibilities as a footballer and role model very seriously,” he said, hanging his head in shame.
However, he did not escape internal disciplinary action from the club.
At the pre-match press conference, Postecoglu was adamant. “Bisuma made the wrong decision,” he said, pointing out that the inhalation of laughing gas was wrong, ”and now he has to rebuild trust in me and the team from scratch.”
Asked how Bisuma can regain trust, Postecoglou said: “It’s an action, that’s all. He has to make better decisions (going forward). 카지노사이트 추천 He apologized to me, to the club and to everyone involved, but that’s only part of it. I think the best way is awareness, education and understanding the consequences of your actions,” he explained.
“We all make mistakes. All human beings, soccer players included. There should always be a chance for redemption, and it’s up to Bissouma to decide (if he will be redeemed).”
The news of Bissouma’s suspension has shaken Tottenham’s pre-season preparations.
Bissouma, who joined Spurs from Brighton & Hove Albion in 2022, was a regular in the side under Postecoglou, who took over just before last season. He made 28 league appearances.
With Bissouma’s one-game suspension confirmed, Pape Sarr, Rodrigo Bentancur and Oliver Skipp could be given the chance to start on opening day. Youngsters Archie Gray and Lucas Verbal, who joined Tottenham in the summer, could also be given a ‘surprise’ chance.
“Gray could start in midfield in Bissouma’s absence,” says the Guardian, adding that ”he has played in a number of positions during pre-season.”