A controversial clip has emerged showing Tottenham star Van de Ven ignoring new coach Igor Tudor's instructions during a heavy 1-4 defeat to Arsenal.
On 23 Feb 2026 GMT+7, Mickey van de Ven, a prominent player for the Tottenham Hotspur, faced serious trouble after being caught on camera ignoring orders from new coach Igor Tudor during the North London Derby where Spurs lost 1-4 to Arsenal.
The drama began when Tudor shouted for the defenders to push their line higher to reduce space for Arsenal’s attackers. However, Van de Ven, who served as captain in place of Cristian Romero that day, only glanced at the instruction and refused to move, maintaining his position as if ignoring the commands from the sidelines.
Tudor is confronting a recurring issue previously faced by former coach Thomas Frank, who experienced similar player indifference. Before Frank was dismissed, defenders Mickey van de Ven and Djed Spence ignored him by not greeting after a 0-1 defeat to Chelsea, although both later apologized.
This incident prompted talkSPORT host Olivia Buzaglo to express frustration during the Sports Breakfast show, saying she could hardly believe what she saw and questioned, "Is this acceptable?"
Former Rangers legend Ally McCoist admitted that although he has not seen the clip, he wouldn’t be surprised if true and warned that continued disrespect toward the manager is a serious concern.
Meanwhile, Arsenal legend Ray Parlour believes Tudor must quickly assert his authority to ensure players listen to him, clearly communicate his ideas and tactics—whether it’s the 3-4-2-1 formation or any other plan—ahead of their next match at Fulham.
Currently, Tottenham has lost 12 of 27 Premier League matches in the 2025-26 season, sitting 16th in the table, only 4 points above the relegation zone, ahead of their away game at Craven Cottage against Fulham, where they have lost their last three visits.