GUGLIELMO VICARIO has had surgery on a fractured ankle – after revealing he played for an hour with the injury at the Etihad.
The Tottenham keeper needed on-pitch treatment and “gave absolutely everything” in a 4-0 win at Manchester City – but now faces a long lay-off.
Vicario’s top-class saves thwarted Erling Haaland in particular as Ange Postecoglou‘s men stunned the Prem champs on Saturday.
But Spurs have confirmed the Italian had an operation two days later.
Vicario responded on Instagram: “Sometimes football gives you its highs and sometimes it challenges you in ways you don’t expect.
“I played 60 minutes at the Etihad with a broken ankle.. giving absolutely everything I had for the team.
“Unfortunately there was no way round this one… I needed surgery… See you soon on the pitch.”
Spurs said on Monday night: “We can confirm that Guglielmo Vicario has today undergone surgery for a fracture of his right ankle.
“Guglielmo will be assessed by our medical staff to determine when he can return to training. We’re all behind you, Vic.”
The £17million stopper has gradually settled into Prem football after joining from Empoli in June 2023.
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And he was prominent after, as well as during, Saturday’s sizzling but surprise success against Pep Guardiola‘s men.
Vicario hailed victory on social media with a message that many thought was aimed at his doubters.
He wrote: “A lot of noise recently.. but this is why we do it. Great win away from home. #COYS @SpursOfficial.”
Tottenham supporters have since rallied round after news of his surgery.
One posted: “Now our fans are really gonna learn to respect him.”
And others are worried by the club’s rising number of injuries.
One said: “Not good… That win could come at a huge cost especially as we already are down 4-5 players.”
Richarlison and virus-hit 17-year-old Mikey Moore are amongst the victims.
And Rodrigo Bentancur has been banned for seven games following a racist comment about Spurs team-mate Son Heung-min.
Meanwhile, Vicario added in his post-op Instagram post on Monday: “I’m disappointed I won’t be able to help the team for a while.
“A massive thank you to the doctors and the staff. The operation went well, and from tomorrow I’ll be working hard to come back stronger, fitter, and ready to give my all for you again.”
“Thank you to the Spurs fans for all the love.”
