It was during a parliamentary debate this week that Damberg compared the government's economic policy to the Premier League club.
Tottenham, Damberg explained, is one of England's most prestigious clubs, with plenty of money, a huge stadium and loyal supporters.
Everything it takes to be a top team, yet Tottenham find themselves in crisis. Not because they lack resources, not because they lack the conditions, but because they have squandered their opportunities.
The government treats the Swedish economy in the same way, according to Damberg.
It's not enough. Sweden must not perform like Tottenham, said the S-toppen in a speech that reached far beyond Sweden's borders.
The words have been picked up by The Athletic, Politico, ESPN, The Mirror and Football London - and have sparked both ridicule and anger among supporters on social media.
Tottenham is in 16th place out of 20 in the Premier League.
