In March, Antonin Kinsky was substituted just 17 minutes into a Champions League last-16 tie at Atletico Madrid after making two bad errors that helped the Spanish side to a 5-2 win. Former Premier League goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel said interim manager Igor Tudor had “completely destroyed his career”. Yet by the end of the season, Kinsky had not only helped Tottenham avoid relegation but also signed an improved contract with the club.
Kinsky, a 23-year-old Czech goalkeeper, joined Tottenham from Slavia Prague for about £12.5m in January 2025 on a contract running to 2031. His first full season was a rollercoaster: after the Champions League humiliation, he was dropped for Guglielmo Vicario. But when Roberto De Zerbi replaced Tudor as manager, Kinsky was given another chance. He played the final seven Premier League games of the season as Spurs secured their top-flight status. De Zerbi said Kinsky was “outstanding” in that period and “a key part of what we achieved”.
“Antonin Kinsky's contract extension at Tottenham: why it happened and what it means”
Kinsky’s new deal is a vote of confidence from a club that has seen its goalkeeping position rotate. His improved terms were announced without details of length or salary, but De Zerbi made clear the club’s belief: “We have huge belief in what Toni can become. He is still young, has enormous potential and I know that Spurs is the perfect place for him to continue to develop into one of the best goalkeepers in Europe.” Kinsky himself said: “It's been a real journey to get here and a nice story already.”
For UK football fans, Kinsky’s story illustrates how quickly fortunes can change in elite football. A single poor performance can define a player’s reputation, but a string of strong displays – and a manager’s trust – can rebuild it. It also highlights the importance of contract management: Spurs invested £12.5m in a young goalkeeper and are now protecting that asset with a longer-term deal. For Tottenham supporters, the move signals stability between the posts after a turbulent season.
Q: Why did Antonin Kinsky get a new contract from Tottenham? After a poor performance in the Champions League, Kinsky regained form under new manager Roberto De Zerbi, playing the final seven games of the Premier League season as Spurs avoided relegation. The club rewarded his professionalism and performances with an improved deal.
Q: How much did Tottenham pay for Antonin Kinsky? Tottenham signed Kinsky from Slavia Prague for about £12.5m in January 2025. His original contract ran to 2031; the new contract extends that term with improved terms, though specific details were not disclosed.
Q: Who is Tottenham's current manager and what has he said about Kinsky? Roberto De Zerbi took over as Tottenham manager. He praised Kinsky's professionalism and desire to improve, saying: “Toni was outstanding over the final seven games… He has earned this new contract.”
What happens next? Kinsky could start the new season as first choice, with Vicario linked with a return to Italy and Inter Milan. Tottenham have shown faith in him, and De Zerbi has set high expectations, stating his belief that Kinsky can become “one of the best goalkeepers in Europe”.