After a rocky few years, Tottenham’s Brazilian forward Richarlison seems to be finding his spark again.
On opening day against Burnley, he connected with Mohammed Kudus’ cross and fired in a goal that felt like a throwback to happier times.
Fans couldn’t help but recall his brace for Brazil against Serbia in the Qatar World Cup two and a half years ago.
This goal isn’t just another tally; it’s a symbol of Richarlison’s return to form, both for Tottenham and the Brazil national team.
After battling injuries, mental health challenges, and the pressures of a £60million price tag in north London, he is finally showing the grit and perseverance that first earned him international acclaim.
Rediscovering Confidence
“I’m feeling good, more and more confident, and gradually getting my football back,” Richarlison told Daily Mail Sport.
The striker is now preparing to make his mark under Carlo Ancelotti in World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Bolivia, aiming to build on his 50 caps and 20 goals for Brazil.
Richarlison admitted that injuries and limited recovery time in the past year made it hard to play pain-free.
But a carefully managed return, coordinated with Tottenham coach Thomas Frank, has helped him regain his rhythm.
“All I ever wanted during this whole time was to be able to play without limitations and help my club and the national team.
Now things are getting back on track,” he said.
Commitment to Tottenham
Despite transfer rumors, Richarlison reaffirmed his dedication to Tottenham.
“I told the coach I wanted to stay, to prove I deserve to play, and to help the club this season.
Tottenham invested a lot in me, even when I was at my lowest, and now I want to give back.”
He emphasized the importance of having stability within the club. “Every player needs peace of mind.
Playing with uncertainty is very difficult, and knowing I have backing here makes a huge difference.”
Life Without Son Heung-min
With Son Heung-min no longer at the club, Richarlison admitted the change feels odd.
“Son is one of the greatest idols in the club’s history and a great friend. It’s strange not to see him during games. I’ll always be rooting for him.”
Winning the Europa League last season was particularly meaningful for Richarlison.
“It was an important achievement for me, coming back from a difficult period.
And for Tottenham, giving the fans a trophy after so many years was special.”
Lessons from Near Misses
The Super Cup defeat to Paris Saint-Germain was bittersweet.
Leading 2-0 until the final minutes, Tottenham eventually lost on penalties.
“We deserved to win over 90 minutes, but football is tough. PSG showed their quality.
We were sad to lose, but proud that we competed with one of the best teams in the world,” he reflected.
Relationships with Coaches
Richarlison has high praise for both Ange Postecoglou and Thomas Frank.
“Ange was very important to me during tough moments, and Thomas is smart, experienced, and has everything it takes to become a fan favorite. I feel lucky to work with both of them.”
His reunion with Carlo Ancelotti for Brazil has also been positive.
“He knows my strengths, trusts me, and gives me confidence.
I have much more to deliver for the national team, and I’m ready for that responsibility.”
Eyes on the World Cup
With the 2026 World Cup approaching, Richarlison is focused on performing rather than claiming the No. 9 shirt.
“I’ve learned not to fall into that trap again. The national team is my life, and nothing has come easy for me.
I’ve had to prove myself more than most, and that’s shaped me.”
Away from the pitch, becoming a father in June has shifted his priorities.
“Focusing on my family and staying away from the noise of social media has helped me a lot.
My concerns are different now, and that makes me stronger mentally.”
A Season of Ambition
Richarlison has set clear goals for the year: stay healthy, maintain top performance, score goals, and help both Tottenham and Brazil win titles.
“We’re back in the Champions League, we have the Premier League, and the World Cup is ahead.
I hope this season is blessed, and that I can crown it with another great performance on the world stage.”