Tottenham Hotspur’s fight against relegation has become one of the strangest stories of the Premier League season – and Richarlison is now living every part of that tension at once.
The Brazilian striker is trying to help Spurs avoid disaster domestically while also attempting to secure his place in Carlo Ancelotti’s Brazil squad for the 2026 World Cup.
After Monday’s draw against Leeds United, Richarlison openly admitted the anxiety surrounding the situation. It has already cost him in Brazil’s previous call-up.
Spurs remain dangerously close to the relegation zone with only two matches left to play. The club sit just two points above West Ham United, who currently occupy the final relegation place.
Richarlison speaking openly about pressure
Speaking to ESPN Brazil after the match, Richarlison admitted Tottenham’s situation is becoming increasingly tense.
“It’s difficult, but point by point we’re moving forward,” he said. “Depending on the result of next weekend’s game, with one more point we can avoid relegation, but we need to do our part. Away from home we’ve managed to pick up points well. Now we have to stay calm.”
The striker also reflected on Tottenham’s latest performance, where Spurs conceded from the penalty spot.
“We played a very intense game today. Unfortunately we conceded a penalty, but that’s football. Now we have to continue over these final two matches.”
Spurs’ disastrous campaign is forming the backdrop to one of the most uncertain moments of Richarlison’s recent career.
World Cup pressure growing
Richarlison also admitted the World Cup situation is weighing heavily on his mind.
“Anxious, right? I think I gave up a lot for that shirt,” the Tottenham player said while discussing Brazil. “I’m doing my work here at Tottenham, I’m playing, I’m scoring my goals. I think I’ll be watching with expectation on TV.”
Despite the uncertainty, the striker insisted he still believes he can make the final squad.
“I’m confident. I believe I can be there. And if I am, I’ll do my best for the national team shirt, like I always have.”
The Brazilian added that he would continue supporting the national side even if he misses out.
“Regardless of whether I’m there or not, I have brothers and teammates there. I’m very patriotic. I’ll always support Brazil.”
Richarlison still producing despite Spurs chaos
What makes the situation more complicated is that Richarlison’s own numbers are not disastrous at all considering Tottenham’s collapse around him.
The forward has scored 11 goals and registered five assists in 41 appearances this season. He has also looked sharper since returning from injury earlier this year, becoming one of the few Spurs attackers producing even a little bit of impact.
Still, with competition for Brazil’s attacking places intensifying and Tottenham drifting dangerously close to relegation, the fear now is that the club’s wider collapse could ultimately cost Richarlison his place at the World Cup.