Analyzing the tactical overhaul at Spurs after losing Harry Kane, the impact of Ange Postecoglu compared to Mikel Arteta, and the confidence lacking in Spurs' attackers. The discussion also includes potential transfers, the departure of the set-piece coach, and the importance of set pieces in scoring goals.
Tottenham's new manager, Ange Postecoglou, has quickly changed the mood and playing style of the team, showcasing his effective communication skills and ability to motivate the players.
Tottenham is undergoing significant changes in their tactics and style of play, aiming to create more attacking opportunities by isolating opposition fullbacks and utilizing one-on-one situations with wide forwards.
Tottenham faces upcoming challenges against teams like Brighton, Burnley, and Sheffield United, as well as rivals such as Arsenal and Liverpool, which will provide further insights into their adaptability, effectiveness, and continued growth under Postecoglou.
Deep dives
Quick Impact of the New Manager
The new manager, Ange Postecoglou, has quickly changed the mood at Tottenham, contrary to initial expectations. Despite starting slowly in his past jobs, the results and performances under Postecoglou have been refreshing and positive. The team is playing in a different, more attacking way, which has garnered support from fans and players alike. Postecoglou's effective communication skills and ability to motivate the team have been highlighted, contributing to the early success.
Adapting Tactics and Style of Play
Tottenham is undergoing significant changes in their tactics and style of play under Postecoglou. The team aims to create more attacking opportunities by isolating opposition fullbacks through the use of inside fullbacks and one-on-one situations with wide forwards. This new approach has showcased the importance of players like Kulesevski and Son, who are tasked with executing these tactics and building on their individual attacking strengths. While there are still some areas to fine-tune, such as improving box presence and flood the box strategies, the team has shown potential in creating chances and adopting a more balanced attack.
Challenges and Future Tests
As Tottenham progresses under Postecoglou, they face upcoming challenges that will provide further insights into their style of play. Matches against teams like Brighton, Burnley, and Sheffield United will test their ability to break down disciplined defensive blocks. Additionally, key fixtures against rivals like Arsenal and Liverpool will gauge how well the team performs in higher-profile games. The integration of new signings, such as James Madison, has been crucial in shouldering the creative burden left by the absence of Harry Kane. These upcoming matches will reveal more about Spurs' adaptability, effectiveness, and continued growth under Postecoglou.
Adapting to new positions on the pitch
Despite players being unfamiliar with certain positions on the pitch, they are adapting well. One player, Poro, stood out for his performance in the recent game. Initially criticized, he showcased the benefits of playing as an inside fullback, creating space for teammates.
Analysis of Spurs' defensive performance
Spurs had a mixed defensive performance in the first half against United. The high line and pressing style worked well at times, creating spaces for their attacking play. However, there were instances where the high line was exploited by United's counterattacks. The defense needs improvement in terms of organization and positioning. Overall, there were moments of control but also vulnerability.
Ali Maxwell is joined by The Athletic's Mark Carey, Liam Tharme and Tottenham writer Charlie Eccleshare to dissect the radical tactical overhaul in progress at Spurs...
How quick, is too quick to try and implement a new tactical system and playing style - especially after losing Harry Kane so late in the window? And what can we learn from an impressive win over Manchester United last weekend?
How does Ange Postecoglu's impact compare to Mikel Arteta's three years ago at Arsenal, is Bissouma good enough to play as a single pivot in midfield and are Spurs' attackers simply lacking confidence?
Plus, with a week to go before the transfer window closes, where might they still need to strengthen, and you'll also hear a snippet from Mark's exclusive interview with their former set-piece coach Gianni Vio.
Produced by Adonis Pratsides
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