Tottenham midfielder Yves Bissouma is set to miss the beginning of the Premier League season as he has been suspended by the club. This comes after an investigation into footage that surfaced, showing him apparently inhaling nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas.
Bissouma had uploaded clips of himself using the substance, which is now classified as a Class C drug according to British law, onto Snapchat over the weekend. The Mali international has since expressed his regret and admitted to exercising “severe lack of judgement” in a statement.
As a result of the investigation, Bissouma has been given a one-match suspension, meaning he will not be available for Tottenham’s Premier League opener against Leicester on Monday. Manager Ange Postecoglou addressed the issue, stating that Bissouma had failed in his responsibilities to the club, teammates, supporters, and everyone associated with Tottenham.
Postecoglou further emphasized the need for trust-building between Bissouma and himself, as well as with the rest of the team. The manager made it clear that the midfielder would have to work hard to regain that trust.
Nitrous oxide is commonly used as an anesthetic and pain reliever in medical settings. However, it is also used recreationally for its intoxicating effects. Prolonged and heavy use of the drug can lead to damage to brain and nerve tissue.
Postecoglou believes that the sanctions imposed on Bissouma should also involve educating the player about the reasons behind his actions and why they were wrong. The Australian coach stressed the importance of understanding Bissouma’s perspective and providing support to ensure he does not make similar choices in the future.
Bissouma, who joined Tottenham from Brighton in 2022, had been a regular starter under Postecoglou during the 2023-24 season, making 26 appearances in the starting lineup.
