Ange Postecoglou eyes ending the trophy drought for the Lilywhites.
Tottenham Hotspur embarked on their Premier League campaign last season with resplendent form, asserting dominance at the summit of the league table for an extended period. However, a cascade of inconsistent performances and debilitating injuries ultimately derailed their momentum, relegating them to a fifth-place finish. The North London outfit narrowly missed securing a UEFA Champions League berth, conceding it by a mere few points to Aston Villa. Spurs will make their return to the UEFA Europa League, eager to reclaim their stature on the European stage.
Tottenham initiated their pre-season with a flourish, despite two recent setbacks against Bayern Munich. They emerged victorious in every other pre-season encounter, including triumphs over Hearts, QPR, Vissel Kobe, and K League XI, amassing a staggering 17 goals across six fixtures. The return of pivotal players such as James Maddison and Micky van de Ven, previously hampered by injuries, is a significant boost for the squad. However, uncertainty shrouds the availability of Destiny Udogie, who remains sidelined for the initial matches.
Tottenham’s summer acquisitions, notably Dominic Solanke, alongside the reintegration of loaned players, have fortified the squad. On paper, they appear as formidable adversaries, capable of toppling Europe’s elite on any given day. This season, the Lilywhites will not only set their sights on ascending to the apex of the Premier League but will also be determined to claim silverware in the Europa League.
In just under a week, Tottenham will inaugurate their Premier League campaign against Leicester City. The club is resolute in shedding the trophy-less tag that has plagued them, with aspirations of clinching silverware this season. In this feature, we delve into the tactical brilliance and strategic acumen of Ange Postecoglou to unveil the prospective starting XI for Tottenham Hotspur. Fasten your seatbelts as we embark on an exhilarating exploration of the predicted lineup for the upcoming Premier League season.
Tottenham Hotspur Predicted lineup (4-2-3-1)
Goalkeeper: Guglielmo Vicario
Following the departure of the stalwart Hugo Lloris, Tottenham Hotspur faced a daunting challenge in securing their last line of defence. The North London outfit found their solution in Guglielmo Vicario, the 27-year-old Italian goalkeeper hailing from Udine. Vicario seamlessly stepped into the role, not merely filling the void but fortifying Tottenham’s goal with unwavering assurance.
Vicario’s journey began with Udinese, where he gained invaluable experience through a loan spell at Venezia. His remarkable performances at Venezia earned him a permanent move, culminating in 77 appearances over four years. His consistent excellence caught the attention of Empoli, leading to a move that eventually paved the way for his arrival at Tottenham in 2023 on a five-year contract.
Vicario quickly established himself as a key figure for the Lilywhites, earning his first clean sheet in a commanding 2-0 victory against Manchester United. His acrobatic prowess and sharp reflexes earned him consecutive nominations for the Save of the Month award from August to December. His contributions did not go unnoticed, as he was honoured with the Goalkeeper of the Year award at the London Football Awards.
With two caps for the Italian national team, Vicario’s hunger for growth and improvement suggests that his influence will only continue to expand. As he solidifies his place at Tottenham, he also has the potential to become a pivotal figure for the Italian national team in the coming years, further enhancing his reputation as a top-tier goalkeeper.
Right-back: Pedro Porro
The 24-year-old Spanish right-wing back from Don Benito has come into his own since joining Tottenham Hotspur. His journey, spanning stints at Peralta, Girona, Manchester City and Sporting Club Portugal, culminated in a loan to Tottenham in 2023. During this period, he made over 15 appearances and netted three crucial goals, showcasing his undeniable talent.
His impressive performances led Tottenham to secure his services permanently in 2023. Since then, he has made 54 appearances, scoring seven goals across all competitions. His skill set has also earned him three caps for the Spanish national team. Notably, he was part of Sporting CP’s Primeira Liga-winning squad in the 2020-21 season. His remarkable overlapping runs and exceptional footballing acumen earned him Defender of the Month accolades four times during his tenure at Sporting CP. As Tottenham Hotspur seek to end their trophy drought, his contributions will be pivotal under Ange Postecoglou’s guidance.
Centre-back: Cristian Romero
The narrative of loaned players making a lasting impact at Tottenham Hotspur finds its epitome in Cristian Romero, a player now revered as one of the finest defenders in contemporary football. The 6’1″ centre-back from Cordoba, Argentina, began his career with Belgrano and later honed his craft at Genoa, Juventus and Atalanta. It was during his loan spell at Tottenham, however, that Romero truly exhibited his defensive prowess, prompting the North London club to secure his services permanently in 2022.
With Harry Kane’s departure before the previous season, Romero was elevated to the role of vice-captain, a testament to his leadership and influence on the pitch. Ange Postecoglou lauded him as a “rock in Tottenham’s defense,” a sentiment echoed by his nomination for the Premier League Player of the Month award in October. Renowned for his proactive defending and dominance in aerial duels, Romero has a knack for scoring pivotal headers from set-pieces.
His current form is stellar, having recently won the Copa América 2024 with the Argentine national team. His accolades include the Serie A Best Defender award in 2021 and inclusion in the Copa América Team of the Tournament in both 2021 and 2024. As Tottenham Hotspur set sights on the upcoming season, Romero will be pivotal in fortifying their defence and ensuring that their backline remains unbreachable.
Centre-back: Micky van de Ven
The 23-year-old Dutch sensation from Wormer, Micky van de Ven, embarked on his footballing journey with Volendam, where he made 45 appearances and netted two goals over two seasons. His burgeoning talent soon caught the eye of VfL Wolfsburg, prompting a move to the Bundesliga. During the 2022-23 season, Van de Ven distinguished himself as one of the fastest defenders in the league, clocking an impressive top speed of 22.3 mph.
In 2023, the North London-based Tottenham Hotspur secured his services with a lucrative six-year contract, reportedly worth 50 million US dollars. Van de Ven’s rapid ascent continued on the international stage, where he made his debut for the Netherlands national team in a UEFA Euro 2024 qualifying clash against France. His performances earned him a spot in the Dutch squad for the recently concluded UEFA Euro 2024, marking him as one of the most promising defenders in European football.
Left-back: Destiny Udogie
Destiny Udogie has emerged as one of Tottenham Hotspur’s most promising talents in recent times. The 6’2″ left-back from Verona began his footballing journey with Hellas Verona, making six appearances before being loaned to Udinese, where he showcased his potential with 35 appearances. His impressive form earned him a move to Tottenham Hotspur in 2022.
Udogie made his debut for Spurs in the Premier League’s 2023-24 season opener against Brentford and soon found the back of the net in a commanding 4-1 victory over Newcastle United. His absence due to injuries was a significant blow to Tottenham, potentially costing them a top-four finish and a place in the UEFA Champions League. Following surgery on his left quadricep, Udogie’s recovery is closely watched, as his dynamic play on the left flank is critical for the team’s success.
Despite his injury woes, Udogie’s talent did not go unnoticed, earning him a nomination for the Premier League Young Player of the Season award. The 21-year-old, who proudly wears the number 13 jersey, is of Nigerian descent and made his debut for the Italian national team against Malta under the guidance of Luciano Spalletti. Though his availability for the initial matches of the upcoming season remains uncertain, Udogie is poised to be a vital asset for Spurs, with his marauding runs down the left flank posing a persistent threat to opposition defences.
Central midfielder: Pape Matar Sarr
Pape Matar Sarr, the 6-foot-1-inch Senegalese talent from Thiaroye, has become a steadfast presence in Tottenham Hotspur’s lineup, despite spending a season on loan at Metz. Beginning his professional journey with Génération Foot in Senegal, Sarr’s burgeoning talent quickly caught the eye, leading to a five-year contract with Ligue 1 side Metz. His transition to the Premier League was eagerly anticipated, and he made his debut against Aston Villa, solidifying his place in the Spurs squad.
Under the guidance of Ange Postecoglou, Sarr has become a regular in Tottenham’s matchday lineup, showcasing his versatility and resilience. His international career is equally impressive. He made his debut for the Senegal national team in an AFCON qualifier against Congo in February 2022.
Sarr played a pivotal role in Senegal’s triumph at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, an achievement that earned him the prestigious title of Grand Officer of the National Order of the Lion, bestowed by the President of Senegal. His remarkable performances also saw him crowned CAF’s Male Young Player of the Year at the 2022 CAF Awards.
As he continues to develop his game, Sarr’s influence in Tottenham’s midfield is expected to grow. His striking ability and shooting prowess make him a dual threat, capable of dictating play and delivering decisive moments on the field. As Tottenham Hotspur aims for success, Pape Matar Sarr will be instrumental in their pursuit of dominance, both domestically and in Europe.
Central midfielder: Yves Bissouma
Joining Pape Matar Sarr in fortifying Tottenham’s midfield is Yves Bissouma, another exceptional African talent whose prowess as a defensive midfielder has garnered significant attention. The 27-year-old from Issia represents the Mali national team and has established himself as a force to be reckoned with in European football. Bissouma’s journey began in the 2016 Africa Cup of Nations Championship, where his performances captured the interest of French scouts.
Bissouma’s European career took off at Lille, where he made over 50 appearances across senior and junior levels, netting six goals. His dynamic play caught the eye of Brighton & Hove Albion, who signed him on a five-year contract for an undisclosed fee. He quickly made an impact, debuting against Watford and scoring his first goal for the club with a stunning long-range effort against Burnley. His time at Brighton was marked by consistent excellence, culminating in a USD 30 million move to Tottenham Hotspur in 2022.
At Spurs, Bissouma wasted no time in proving his worth, earning consecutive Man of the Match honours for his standout performances against Brentford and Manchester United. His resilience and determination have been evident throughout his career, overcoming personal challenges, including allegations of overspeeding, to focus on his role on the pitch.
Bissouma’s journey, from his early years in Ivory Coast to his move to Mali at 13, is a testament to his perseverance and talent. As a key member of the Mali national team that finished as runners-up in the 2016 African Nations Championship, Bissouma brings invaluable experience to Tottenham. Under Ange Postecoglou’s guidance, he is poised to be a crucial asset, providing stability and strength in the midfield as Tottenham Hotspur aims to make a significant impact in the Premier League and beyond.
Right winger: Dejan Kulusevski
Swedish international Dejan Kulusevski has garnered considerable acclaim, with his former Parma manager, Roberto D’Aversa, drawing comparisons to Mohamed Salah, particularly highlighting Kulusevski’s exceptional work rate and mentality. D’Aversa noted that Kulusevski consistently ranks among the players covering the most distance in every game.
In response to this praise, Kulusevski remarked, “I like to have the ball at my feet. I used to dribble a lot when I was a kid, and I got better at moving the ball more quickly. I have developed my defensive game, which was a weakness before, and that has made me a more complete player.” His self-assessment is evident on the field, as he has accumulated 84 appearances for Tottenham Hotspur, netting 15 goals.
Kulusevski’s footballing journey began with Atalanta, where his potential first started to show. His career advanced as he made his mark in Serie A with Juventus, contributing significantly to the team’s successes before making the move to North London. His development has been remarkable, evolving from a promising young talent to a key player for Spurs.
On the international stage, Kulusevski has represented Sweden with distinction, earning 39 caps and scoring three goals. His achievements include being part of the Juventus squad that lifted the Coppa Italia in 2021. Furthermore, he was recognized as Serie A’s Best Young Player for the 2019-20 season, a testament to his early impact in one of Europe’s top leagues.
Central Attacking Midfielder: James Maddison
It’s often said that no single player can singlehandedly alter the fate of a club, yet James Maddison has consistently defied this notion, making a profound and almost miraculous impact at Tottenham Hotspur. In the wake of a tumultuous period marked by the departure of several key figures, Maddison emerged as a linchpin for the North London-based outfit, infusing the team with creativity and leadership when it was needed most.
Maddison’s footballing journey began at Coventry City FC, where his talent first came to the fore. His subsequent stints at Norwich City and Aberdeen further honed his skills before he signed with Leicester City in 2018. Over five years with Leicester, Maddison became a cornerstone of the team, amassing 163 appearances and scoring 43 goals. His performances earned him widespread recognition, and even after Leicester’s relegation to the Championship, his reputation remained unscathed. In 2023, Maddison made the pivotal move to Tottenham, where he was entrusted with the role of vice-captain alongside Cristian Romero.
Maddison’s impact at Spurs was immediate and profound. He marked his first goal for the club in a commanding 2-0 victory against Bournemouth, signaling his intent to become a central figure in Tottenham’s resurgence. His early performances were nothing short of stellar, earning him the Premier League Player of the Month accolade in August, as he contributed one goal and two assists in just his first three league matches for the club.
However, Maddison’s momentum was tragically halted by an ankle injury, a setback that many believe cost Tottenham a top-four finish. Despite his brilliance, his absence was keenly felt, and the team struggled to maintain their form without him. On the international stage, Maddison has earned seven caps for England, but his omission from Gareth Southgate‘s final 26-man squad for Euro 2024 was a bitter pill to swallow. Maddison himself admitted the disappointment, acknowledging that his fitness was not at its peak.
Looking ahead, Maddison is determined to reclaim his place as one of England’s finest midfielders. His sights are set on a resurgent season with Tottenham, where he aims to dazzle in the white jersey and earn a well-deserved spot in the England squad for future international competitions. His pedigree is undeniable, having been named Leicester City’s Player of the Year for the 2021-22 season—a reflection of his enduring quality and influence on the pitch.
Left winger: Son Heung-min
When the name Son Heung-min is mentioned, the first thoughts that come to mind are loyalty and dedication. Widely regarded as one of the finest players of his generation and the greatest Asian footballer of all time, Son epitomizes commitment to his craft. Despite the departure of club legend Harry Kane and a managerial change in 2023, Son chose to stay with Tottenham Hotspur, underscoring his unwavering dedication to the club.
Over nearly a decade with the North London-based outfit, Son has made over 300 appearances and netted 120 goals. In 2023, he achieved a landmark by becoming the first Asian player to score 100 Premier League goals. He is also one of only three players, and the sole Asian, to reach 300 appearances for Tottenham, joining the ranks of Hugo Lloris and Harry Kane.
Son’s footballing accolades extend beyond the pitch. He is a recipient of the Cheonggyeong Medal, South Korea’s highest sports honour. Prior to his illustrious spell at Tottenham, he showcased his talents with Hamburger SV and Bayer Leverkusen. Sir Alex Ferguson, a renowned figure in football, praised Son, expressing regret that he couldn’t manage him and lauding both Son and Harry Kane as exceptional talents.
Son’s versatility and relentless work ethic have earned him admiration from teammates and the media alike. His willingness to adapt to various positions is a testament to his commitment to the team. Son himself embodies this adaptability, stating, “I don’t care where I play. The main thing is I’m in the game. I can play as a second striker or behind the main striker. Whatever the coach says, I’ll do. I don’t have a favorite position. I’ll be anywhere and always on the throttle.”
As the captain of Tottenham Hotspur, Son Heung-min is poised to lead the club with his characteristic zeal, aiming to bring joy and success to the North London outfit in the upcoming season.
Centre-forward: Dominic Solanke
Tottenham Hotspur faced a considerable challenge in finding a fitting replacement for Harry Kane following his departure. Despite efforts from Timo Werner and Brennan Johnson, a suitable striker remained elusive. The recent announcement of Dominic Solanke’s arrival marks a significant development for Spurs.
Solanke began his career with Chelsea and later made appearances for Liverpool before carving out a notable role at AFC Bournemouth. With over 216 appearances for Bournemouth, he was instrumental in their return to the Premier League after a standout Championship season in 2021-22.
Former Chelsea striker Tore Andre Flo lauded Solanke for his industriousness, robust physique and superb ball control. Flo praised Solanke’s speed and his adeptness at retrieving the ball even in constrained circumstances. Although Tottenham Hotspur fans are still coming to terms with Harry Kane’s exit, 26-year-old Solanke from Reading, standing 6-foot-2, is poised to fill the void. Spurs will be counting on him to deliver a consistent flow of goals and maintain their attacking prowess.
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