Ange Postecoglou has wasted no time in shaking up Tottenham Hotspur since taking over as manager. While the team’s Asia-Pacific tour may have started with a 3-2 defeat against West Ham, the tactics and principles he displayed have left fans intrigued and excited for what lies ahead.
Postecoglou’s 4-3-3 formation highlighted its most striking tactical detail – Postecoglou demanded of both his full-backs to push high up the pitch simultaneously, similar to Pep Guardiola’s style at Manchester City, creating space in and between lines and providing more attacking options for his team.
However, the defeat also exposed some familiar defensive frailties. The high defensive line left them vulnerable to quick turnovers, leading to West Ham’s goals. It’s clear that both tactical adjustments and personnel improvements are needed to shore up their defense.
Postecoglou’s midfield experiments showcased a fresh approach as well. Yves Bissouma started in front of the back four, with Oliver Skipp playing further forward. James Maddison provided creativity from the left side, pushing up to lead the press alongside Harry Kane. In the second half, Pierre-Emile Højbjerg, Pape Sarr, and Giovani Lo Celso took charge, dominating possession and creating numerous chances.
The Postecoglou era represents a clean slate for the players. While he inherited a sizeable squad, he’s keen to assess all options before deciding on potential departures. Lo Celso, in particular, showcased his talents and might have a chance to revive his Tottenham career.
The firing line is aimed at the central defenders, with names like Sánchez, Tanganga, and Rodon facing scrutiny. Postecoglou is eyeing defensive reinforcements, with Wolfsburg’s Micky van de Ven and Bayer Leverkusen’s Edmond Tapsoba on his radar. Clement Lenglet, who spent last season on loan, is also a potential option.
As for the “you-know-what” surrounding Harry Kane, Postecoglou is determined to focus on football and not be bogged down by speculation. Kane’s future remains uncertain, with Bayern Munich’s public pursuit adding to the intrigue. However, as the new captain in Lloris’s absence, Kane played reasonably well, proving his dedication to the team.
Postecoglou’s Tottenham revolution is well underway, and despite the initial defeat, the team’s proactive and attacking style has already won over many fans. As the transfer window continues, and the saga surrounding Kane’s future unfolds, one thing is certain: Postecoglou’s tenure promises to be a thrilling and unpredictable ride for Spurs supporters.
