Kolo Muani Set to Wear Protective Mask for North London Derby

Randal Kolo Muani’s return to the pitch could come sooner than expected, as the Tottenham striker has been training in a specially fitted mask ahead of the highly anticipated north London derby against Arsenal. Kolo Muani suffered a fractured jaw earlier this month during Tottenham’s 2-2 clash with Manchester United, following a collision with Harry Maguire. Despite the severity of the injury, the Paris Saint-Germain loanee avoided surgery, opening the door to a potential appearance at The Emirates on Sunday.

Kolo Muani’s Resilience After Jaw Injury

The primary focus is now on Kolo Muani’s recovery and his chances of featuring in Tottenham’s crucial showdown against Arsenal. Spurs’ head coach Thomas Frank confirmed that although Kolo Muani struggled following the incident, he did not require an operation. Initial reports had suggested the French international could miss up to two months. However, recent updates reveal he has resumed training while wearing a custom protective mask, giving hope to Tottenham fans eager for his return.

Kolo Muani to Follow Spurs Mask Tradition?

If Kolo Muani steps onto the field wearing a mask, he will echo the legacy of former Spurs striker Harry Kane, who famously donned a protective mask after breaking his nose and went on to score a memorable goal against Arsenal. Tottenham supporters will be hoping for a similar fairytale, as Kolo Muani looks to break his scoring drought and make an impact in the derby.

Kolo Muani’s Tottenham Struggles So Far

Arriving on loan from PSG at the start of the 2025/26 season, Kolo Muani was expected to add firepower to Tottenham’s attack. However, he has yet to find the net in eight appearances across all competitions. His prolific stint at Juventus last season, where he scored 10 goals in 22 games, raised expectations among the Spurs faithful. Now, as the club prepares for one of its most important fixtures, all eyes will be on whether Kolo Muani can replicate his previous form and open his account in a Tottenham shirt.

Why Spurs Signed Kolo Muani

Tottenham’s move for Kolo Muani on the final day of the summer transfer window was seen as a strategic boost to their attacking options, especially with frequent injuries hampering Dominic Solanke and Richarlison. Head coach Thomas Frank emphasized Kolo Muani’s versatility and Champions League experience, noting the forward’s ability to play both out wide and centrally. “He’s in the prime of his career and brings qualities that suit both us and the demands of the Premier League,” Frank stated in September.

What’s at Stake in the North London Derby?

Tottenham currently sits fifth in the Premier League with 18 points from 11 matches. Their upcoming clash against Arsenal, who lead the league by four points, could have significant implications for both their Champions League ambitions and north London bragging rights. A victory could close the gap and boost Tottenham’s momentum, while a defeat risks leaving them trailing behind their arch-rivals.

Can Kolo Muani Make the Difference?

If Kolo Muani is deemed fit to play and dons the protective mask, his presence could provide Spurs with a vital edge against Arsenal. His pace, movement, and strength are assets Tottenham will need as they face one of Europe’s most in-form defenses. The striker will also be eager to prove himself after a slow start to his Tottenham tenure and silence critics by scoring in the fixture that matters most to fans.

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Opinion: Kolo Muani’s Masked Return Could Inspire Spurs

Kolo Muani’s determination to return so swiftly after a serious injury is commendable and could serve as an inspiration to his teammates. If he manages to score against Arsenal while wearing the mask, it might ignite his season and galvanize Spurs in their pursuit of a top-four finish. Tottenham supporters will be hoping that history repeats itself and that, like Kane before him, Kolo Muani’s masked appearance becomes the stuff of derby legend.