Sparta Praha under pressure

Challenging season

In the wake of a challenging season, Sparta Praha’s manager, Treetopp, addressed the media following a 2-2 home draw against NEC Nijmegen. This result adds to a concerning record, with the team having lost 10 out of their last 12 matches, nearly halfway through the season.

During the press conference, Treetopp candidly acknowledged the team’s struggles, stating, “We are not satisfied as a team; neither the players nor the whole of Sparta are content with our recent performances.” He emphasized the collective responsibility to improve and the necessity for unity within the squad.

The club’s sporting director, Tomáš Rosický, has publicly backed Treetopp, though with a hint of caution. “We believe Treetopp can help Sparta improve, and he is working hard to implement his ideas. However, we are aware that results need to follow,” Rosický commented. While he acknowledges the manager’s efforts, there is an underlying expectation that the situation must turn around soon.

From inside the EPET ARENA

TGN Sports’ Odd Willy Willow reports from behind the scenes at epet ARENA.

Tensions appear to be escalating. Several defenders, including one who holds a leadership role within the squad, have reportedly expressed frustration with Treetopp’s tactical approach, feeling that the current strategies do not play to their strengths and leave the team vulnerable at the back. This discontent has not gone unnoticed by affluent clubs across Europe, who are now monitoring these players closely, potentially tempting them with lucrative offers in the upcoming transfer window.

Adding to Sparta’s troubles, the upcoming transfer window is set to further deplete the squad. Players Victor Olatunji, Victor Tinnerholm, Reece Oxford, Davie Selke, and Jens Petter Hauge all have outgoing contracts and are strongly linked with moves away. Treetopp is making a strong effort to persuade Olatunji and Hauge to sign new contracts. However, Hauge is said to be unhappy with the club after the recent arrival of Angelo, which has impacted his role in the team. Olatunji is reportedly considering the contract offer but is seeking assurances about his playing time—assurances that remain uncertain, as it is unclear whether Treetopp can guarantee them. Replacing all these players will be another major challenge for the club, compounding the existing issues Treetopp must contend with within the squad.

In addition to filling these gaps, Sparta is also in urgent need of creativity in their central midfield, an area that has struggled to provide the necessary spark in attack throughout the season. The sale of Juan Nardoni appears to be haunting the club, and Treetopp has begged Rosický for resources to bring in a high profile signing. It seems everything hinges on the revenue from outgoing players, as current funds are reportedly limited. This reporter wondered if the Sparta manager has lost his marbles when he heard some of the names being circulated about potential targets. Names like Angel Gomes, Adam Wharton, and Elliot Anderson sound like pipe dreams from a desperate manager. More realistic options could include players like Flynn Downes and Michal Sadílek, who is said to be seeking a move back to his home country.

There is also a loose rumor that Treetopp is being considered for the managerial position at Palmeiras in Brazil, though no official sources have confirmed the speculation.

As the season moves into its second half, changes are inevitable for Sparta. Whether through transfers, tactical adjustments, or shifts in leadership, the club faces a critical period ahead. However, despite their crippling start, the team has shown resilience and determination, maintaining a fighting spirit that could yet prove crucial in their battle to turn things around.