Kieran Trippier, the English footballer who is set to represent his country in Euro 2024, recently opened up about his biggest regret in the game. In an interview with SkyBet’s The Overlap, Trippier revealed that his departure from Tottenham Hotspur in 2019 was his sourest moment. The right-back, who had been a key player under Mauricio Pochettino, explained that he had discussions with Daniel Levy (Tottenham’s chairman) and the manager regarding his future at the club. However, he felt that he was being tossed around without receiving any clarity. Trippier expressed his desire for honesty and transparency, emphasizing that as a player, all he needed was a straightforward answer about whether he was part of the plans or if it was time to move on.
Trippier’s departure from Tottenham came as a surprise to many. After losing to Liverpool in the 2019 Champions League final, the defender made a £20m move to Atletico Madrid. During his time in Spain, Trippier experienced success, helping Atletico Madrid secure the LaLiga title in the 2020/2021 season. This triumph marked the only trophy of his senior career thus far.
In 2022, Trippier joined Newcastle United for £12m, becoming the first signing under the club’s new Saudi owners. When asked about his favorite manager, the Englishman humorously named Diego Simeone, the coach of Atletico Madrid, as his top choice. He playfully apologized to Newcastle manager Eddie Howe for not picking him.
Reflecting on his career highlights, Trippier shared that his favorite goal was the stunning freekick he scored against Croatia in the semi-final of the 2018 World Cup in Moscow. This goal played a crucial role in England’s journey to the World Cup final, where they ultimately fell short.
When it comes to memorable teammates, Trippier singled out Diego Costa as the best character he has played alongside. Costa, known for his fiery personality on and off the pitch, left a lasting impression on Trippier. Additionally, Trippier mentioned that David Beckham was his childhood idol, highlighting the influence the former England captain had on his footballing aspirations.
Trippier’s interview with The Overlap provided fans with a deeper insight into his career and personal experiences. It shed light on the challenges and emotions he faced during his departure from Tottenham and his subsequent successes at Atletico Madrid. Trippier’s desire for honesty and clarity resonates with many players who have found themselves in similar situations. His journey serves as a reminder of the complexities and uncertainties that come with being a professional footballer.