Tottenham Hotspur realise why Juventus let go of Rodrigo Bentancur

Tottenham Hotspur are considering extending the contract of midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur, but doubts are growing among fans about whether keeping him longer is the right decision.

Six months ago, most Spurs supporters would have welcomed the idea of tying him down for a few more years. Now, however, many believe the Uruguayan is holding the team back.

Bentancur has recently faced heavy criticism from Tottenham fans. Compared to youngster Archie Gray, his style appears far less positive. He keeps possession but rarely creates, struggles under pressure, and avoids risks.

Rodrigo Bentancur of Tottenham Hotspur in action during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD1 match between Tottenham Hotspur

During Tottenham’s weaker seasons, Bentancur was a reliable figure who added stability to the midfield. At a time when the squad lacked quality, he was seen as one of the few dependable options. But as Spurs have improved, Bentancur’s limitations are becoming harder to ignore.

No longer viewed as a savior, he is now seen as a player who offers little more than safe, sideways passing and in high-intensity Premier League matches, that’s not enough.

Juventus fans would not be surprised by this. They saw Bentancur’s stock fall sharply during the 2020/21 season under Andrea Pirlo, when the Turin giants lost their grip on Serie A dominance.

The issue isn’t that Bentancur lacks ability. He is technically sound, experienced, and works hard defensively.

The problem is that he does not stand out in any area and lacks the boldness to push the ball forward. At best, he’s a stabiliser; at worst, a liability against stronger sides.

Tottenham Hotspur’s Rodrigo Bentancur and Villarreal’s Georges Mikautadze during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League

Clubs like Tottenham, with ambitions of competing at the top level in England and Europe, cannot afford to settle. Players like Bentancur useful during rebuilding phases eventually become obstacles to progress.

Tottenham’s next step is clear: thank Bentancur for his contributions, but avoid long-term reliance on a player whose ceiling has already been reached. Juventus learned this lesson years ago, and now Spurs seem to be catching up.