Tottenham Hotspur CEO Vinai Venkatesham makes a transfer commitment and clarifies the club’s position on its wage policy.

Tottenham Hotspur CEO Vinai Venkatesham has attempted to ease growing supporter unrest by publishing a detailed open letter in the matchday programme ahead of the Premier League London derby with West Ham United. Spurs enter the fixture in 14th place, with the season once again falling well short of expectations. Under Thomas Frank, the club has already been knocked out of both domestic cup competitions, while a string of long-term injuries has prevented any real momentum from building. Results have been particularly poor, with only two wins in the last 13 matches, further intensifying fan dissatisfaction.

That frustration has been evident inside the stadium, with boos at full-time and chants mocking both performances and style of play. Although the £34.7m signing of Conor Gallagher from Atletico Madrid briefly lifted spirits, tensions remain high. Supporter group Change for Tottenham is still planning a protest before Saturday’s match, aimed at highlighting discontent with yet another underwhelming campaign despite internal changes at the club.

Images of Venkatesham’s letter have since circulated widely across supporter platforms. The statement follows recent talks between club officials and the Tottenham Hotspur Supporters’ Trust, where fans demanded greater transparency and clearer communication. The CEO’s message appears to respond directly to those concerns, outlining explanations, promises and a long-term vision for the club.

In the letter, Venkatesham acknowledged the team’s struggles and sought to reassure supporters that concrete steps are being taken. He reiterated that the shared ambition of the ownership, board and executive team is for Spurs to consistently compete in the Champions League, challenge for major trophies, and significantly raise standards within the women’s team.

He admitted fans have heard similar assurances before and stressed that words alone are no longer enough. Venkatesham revealed that an extensive internal review is underway, describing the current moment as a rare chance for a genuine “reset” at a club of Tottenham’s size. He insisted Spurs are committed to modernising their operations and closing the gap to Europe’s elite.

The CEO conceded that while football has evolved rapidly, Tottenham have not always kept pace in key areas. He recognised growing supporter impatience and accepted that performances and results from the men’s first team this season have fallen below expectations.

Recruitment and squad planning featured prominently. Venkatesham said the club believes in the current squad but accepts that more quality, experience and leadership are required to compete consistently at the highest level. He outlined plans for a more proactive transfer approach, supported by a wage structure that balances ambition with financial sustainability.

Tottenham will look to strengthen during the January window if suitable opportunities arise, while acknowledging that most transfer business typically occurs in the summer. Any signings must represent clear improvements, with the club determined to avoid short-term solutions and remain disciplined in the market.
He also stressed the importance of being decisive in selling players who no longer fit long-term plans, maximising player value and operating within Financial Fair Play regulations. This, he noted, counters the belief that Spurs are unaffected by such constraints.

This renewed strategy is reflected in the appointment of Rafi Moersen from City Football Group as Director of Football Operations. Reporting to Sporting Director Johan Lange, Moersen will help shape recruitment strategy and oversee player trading when he arrives later this year.
Venkatesham placed strong emphasis on the academy, describing it as central to Tottenham’s future. A successful youth system reduces reliance on transfer fees and allows greater investment elsewhere, while producing players who understand the club’s identity. While progress has been made, he admitted Spurs must deliver more first-team minutes and stronger transfer returns from academy graduates, prompting further investment in the development pathway.

On performance support, the CEO explained that success depends on more than coaching alone. While Thomas Frank’s staff has been strengthened with the addition of John Heitinga, Venkatesham highlighted the importance of elite medical, sports science, nutrition and psychological support. Several changes are already underway, including the arrival of Dan Lewindon as Performance Director next month from City Football Group.

One of the most sensitive issues addressed was the strained relationship between the club and its supporters. Venkatesham openly acknowledged a growing disconnect and pledged to rebuild trust and unity. He cited initiatives such as the new Son Heung-min mural, ticketing adjustments and a trial singing section as early steps, alongside ongoing collaboration with the Fan Advisory Board.

Improving matchday access for younger fans was highlighted as a priority, with a review of concession pricing for juniors and young adults planned ahead of next season. Venkatesham said the club wants Tottenham to feel inclusive, welcoming and closely connected to its communities.
To improve communication and engagement, he confirmed the appointments of Kate Miller as Chief Communications Officer and Adam Gardiner as Chief Marketing Officer. Alongside Moersen, they form part of a refreshed executive team designed to create a more modern and collaborative leadership structure.
Venkatesham also reaffirmed that the club’s ambitions go beyond the men’s first team. He restated Spurs’ commitment to the women’s side, pointing to January investment and early signs of progress this season, while stressing the importance of growing the team’s profile and support.
He closed by thanking supporters for their loyalty and passion, acknowledging how deeply Tottenham means to them. Venkatesham insisted the club cannot exist without its fans and promised that everyone at Spurs is fully committed to building a future worthy of their dedication.