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The 29yo suffers a recurrence of a hip problem as Tottenham race to have their vice-captain fit for the Premier League opener. Tottenham Hotspur midfielder James Maddison has suffered a reoccurrence of an old hip issue, casting fresh uncertainty over his availability for the start of the Premier League campaign. According to reports shared by Last Word On Spurs on X and club insider Paul O’Keefe, Tottenham’s medical staff are actively managing the problem internally. The club remains hopeful that the 29-year-old vice-captain (who is set to be the captain for the next season) will be cleared in time to feature in the matchday squad for the opening fixture against Brentford. Spurs medical personnel are taking a cautious approach to Maddison’s recovery to prevent further complications. Having already missed initial pre-season friendlies, the coaching staff opted to protect his fitness rather than risk aggravating the underlying joint issue. Young midfielder Lucas Bergvall has stepped into the attacking midfield role during recent pre-season matches while Maddison works through his tailored rehabilitation program. Should Maddison fail to prove his fitness ahead of the Brentford clash, head coach Roberto De Zerbi will likely rely on summer arrival Sandro Tonali alongside Pape Matar Sarr and Rodrigo Bentancur to anchor the midfield. Alternatively, young Swedish playmaker Lucas Bergvall could be handed a starting role in the central attacking pivot after featuring heavily throughout pre-season. While losing Maddison’s creativity represents a temporary setback, Tottenham’s summer recruitment ensures Spurs possess sufficielnt technical depth to navigate his absence. Context Following Previous Long-Term Absence The recurring hip problem follows a difficult period for Maddison, who missed nearly the entire previous campaign after sustaining a serious knee injury in pre-season. He returned to action late in May 2026, making cameo appearances off the bench during the final matches of the season. Medical staff view minor muscle and joint imbalances as a common setback for players returning from prolonged physical layoffs. Head coach Roberto De Zerbi and the Spurs hierarchy will monitor Maddison’s daily progress over the coming fortnight before deciding on his inclusion for the trip to Brentford.