UCL MD1: Thomas Partey’s Villareal visit Mohammed Kudus’ Tottenham Hotspur

The 2025-26 UEFA Champions League will commence on Tuesday with Tottenham Hotspur welcoming Spanish side Villarreal to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium at 7 pm.

The fixture will renew the Spanish and English club football rivalry, as any meeting between clubs from these countries is always keenly contested.

Two Ghanaian footballers moved to either side during the recent transfer window, with Thomas Partey signing for Villarreal as a free agent from Arsenal.

Kudus made a contentious move from Tottenham’s rivals, West Ham United, in a deal worth 55 million pounds.

The two talented footballers are set to clash on Tuesday night, having already done that when their previous clubs met in London derbies in the last two seasons.

Ghana’s attention on Tuesday night will be at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium to witness their beloved sons in action.

Kudus will return to the competition after a two-year absence, whilst Partey will continue after helping Arsenal to reach the semi-finals last season.

Tottenham’s manager Thomas Frank on Villarreal’s fixture

“It’s a fantastic experience and opportunity for me tomorrow [to coach a first Champions League game]. It’s a big European night, and we know our fans will be absolutely on it. It will be so special. I’m really looking forward to the Champions League anthem and the first two minutes, and then full focus on the game”, Frank said. It will be the manager’s debut in the UCL, and he is really looking forward to it.

“I have huge respect for [coach] Marcelino, I think he’s done a top job. His team is well-structured, well-organised, and they like to dominate as much as possible on the ball.

I’ve been impressed by what I’ve seen, and it’s going to be a good challenge”, Frank said.

Spain have so many top managers that Marcelino’s talent is less appreciated.