Tottenham Hotspur kicked off the 2023–24 season with a glimpse of positivity, finding themselves sitting at the top of the Premier League table after eight games under new manager Ange Postecoglou.
Hopes were high as the Australian coach has been known for his managerial skills across various continents, and has brought a fresh perspective to the club's ambitions.
However, as the season progressed, Spurs faced a sobering reality check, enduring a dip in form that has prompted scrutiny over Postecoglou's tactical approach. Despite his success in previous managerial roles spanning Australia, Japan, Scotland, and now England, the challenges of one of the toughest leagues have presented a unique set of obstacles for him to navigate.
Even though the club wasted no time in the 2023/24 transfer window, securing arrivals such as Brennan Johnson, James Maddison, Radu Dragusin, Micky van de Ven, Guglielmo Vicario, Lucas Bergvall, and Timo Werner, yet, the North Londoners' lack the necessary profiles to fully realize this strategy. This highlights the need for targeted signings in the upcoming summer transfer window.
Therefore, as Postecoglou is eager to explore solutions to his side's recent downturn, the importance remains in improving their attacking line and adding better force from wide areas.
With the right reinforcements and tactical small changes, the 58-year-old boss simply has the opportunity to transform his team's upcoming campaign and recapture the 2023/24 early-season promise that had all the hopes of a successful year.
Ahead of the upcoming campaign, several names have already been linked to the potential move to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, with Pedro Neto, Conor Gallagher, Jarrad Branthwaite and Frenkie de Jong topping the list.
Below, VBETNews takes a look at how Tottenham should line up for the majority of their Premier League and European Cup matches in 2024-25:
How Tottenham should line up for 2024–25
GK: Guglielmo Vicario
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Since his move to Tottenham from Empoli in the summer for around €20 million, Guglielmo Vicario has revealed his potential as a top goalkeeper.
Signed as the long-term successor to Hugo Lloris, the 27-year-old has lived up to expectations, despite conceding four goals against Chelsea in a challenging match. He has consistently proven his worth in the Premier League, making vital saves and putting a build-up play for his team.
With his impressive performances under new coach Ange Postecoglou, Spurs' fans are now urging for the Italian to start in the upcoming European Championship if the North Londoners secure a place in the 2024/25 season.
His impressive statistic as the top goalkeeper in the English domestic league for xG conceded minus actual goals conceded per 90 minutes, with a rating of +0.28, underscores his effectiveness in stopping goals.
RB: Pedro Porro
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In the 2023/24 season, Pedro Porro's revival at Tottenham Hotspur has been nothing short of remarkable. From a player grappling with struggles in the previous campaign, the Spaniard has experienced an impressive transformation under newly appointed coach Ange Postecoglou.
Once criticized for his adaptability as a right-back in a regular back four, the 24-year-old has silenced doubters with his expected recent performances.
The statistics speak loudly about the defender's contributions this season, with impressive attacking skills and defensive solidity. In his 23 games played so far this season, the Spain international has notched up an impressive sum of eight assists, enjoying a stunning 92% involvement in the starting lineup under the Australian boss, displaying his vital role in the North Londoners campaign.
CB: Cristian Romero
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Romero has impressed throughout the 2023–24 season with his aggressive yet controlled game on the field, particularly after being named joint vice-captain by manager Ange Postecoglou.
Teaming up with Micky van de Ven, the Argentine forms one of the Premier League's most formidable defensive partnerships, blending speed, tenacity, and technical ability.
He has played a very important role in the North Londoners' transition to a possession-based style under the new manager, leading the team in passes attempted and completed.
The 25-year-old's quickness at bringing the ball out of defense has solidified his status as a backbone in Tottenham's backline, contributing significantly to their positive start under the Australian boss.
CB: Radu Drăgușin
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Radu Dragusin made a move to Spurs from Genoa in January, but his initial days at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium have been spent by a lack of starts under manager Ange Postecoglou. Despite turning down offers from Bayern Munich and Napoli to join the North Londoners, the 22-year-old defender seems to be facing a waiting game for his chance in the starting lineup
Up to this point, the Romani international has been used as a late substitute, earning only eight minutes of playing time across three cameo appearances. While his on-field contributions have been limited, it is worth noting that his role could evolve, and patience might prove vital for the young player.
Moreover, looking ahead, there's potential for the young defender to become a significant figure in Postecoglou's plans, especially in the forthcoming 2024/25 campaign.
LB: Destiny Udogie
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Udogie's Premier League journey began with an €18 million transfer to North London in 2022, followed by a loan spell at Udinese to nurture his growth.
Upon his return for the 2023/24 season, the Italian left-back swiftly asserted himself as Tottenham's primary choice over Ben Davies. Renowned for his attacking prowess and defensive solidity, the 21-year-old notably showed excellent performances against strong opponents like Mohamed Salah and Bukayo Saka.
Recognizing his impact, Ange Postecoglou and his board extended the young talent's contract until 2030 and enhanced his salary. Under the Australian manager, the Italian thrived in a versatile role, seamlessly transitioning between the left flank and midfield, showcasing his adaptability and earning admiration for his contributions at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
CM: Yves Bissouma
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Yves' role in Tottenham's midfield has been vital, acting as a backbone in the team's core, especially partnering with players like James Madison and Son Heung-Min, who could be relying on his presence.
However, while Mali international showcased strong performances early in the season, his form has waned in recent times, leading to concerns about his reliability during crucial moments. Nevertheless, it's important to note that the 27-year-old's recent dip in form should not overshadow his overall quality and potential.
With his skill set and determination, the African star has the skills and all the potential to regain his top form in due course.
CM: Conor Gallagher
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Tottenham's transfer focus has honed in on Conor Gallagher recently, with the club eyeing a potential move for the midfielder in the upcoming summer window should he choose against extending his contract at Chelsea.
Enjoying an uptick in playing time under Mauricio Pochettino, the Englishman has become a key figure in the Blues' midfield, prompting Spurs to maintain their interest in securing his signature.
However, the final decision on the 24-year-old's future lies with the player himself, leaving the North Londoners eagerly awaiting developments in their pursuit of the midfield talent.
CM: James Maddison
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Tottenham's investment of £40 million in James Maddison from Leicester City seems to be paying off as the best transfer deal of the summer.
The 27-year-old midfielder has quickly made an impact with three goals and seven assists in his 17 appearances for Spurs. The England international's exceptional passing skills, goal-scoring ability, and know-how in set-pieces have immediately established him as a vital figure in Ange Postecoglou's squad.
Maddison's effective partnership with players like Son and Dejan Kulusevski is clear, contributing to moments of excellence that have the potential to change the course of closely fought games.
RW: Pedro Neto
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Tottenham have showed a keen interest in Wolves winger Pedro Neto who will reportedly depart from the Midlands club in the upcoming months.
The 23-year-old has been throwing impressive performances this season, contributing three goals and 12 assists across all competitions. The Portugal international's readiness to revive his career ranges with potential moves to clubs competing at the Champions League level, such are the North Londoners.
Neto's qualities make him a suitable fit for Ange Postecoglou's attacking tactics, offering promise for a more potent scoring season for Spurs.
LW: Heung-min Son
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Following Harry Kane's departure in the summer, concerns were around over Tottenham's ability to score without their star striker, especially with Ange Postecoglou opting not to sign a replacement.
Heung-min Son has risen to the occasion, highlighting his goal-scoring skills and providing valuable assists. Appointed captain by the South Korean superstar has taken on a leadership role, setting an example for his teammates
The 31-year-old's impressive run of 12 league goals and six assists already surpasses last season's numbers, although matching his remarkable 2021/22 total of 23 goals would require a special effort.
On the other hand, with his contract set to expire in 2025, it would be sensible for the club's board to explore selling the soon-to-be 32-year-old with 'massive' offers expected for the Asian star, especially from clubs in the Saudi Pro League are eagerly securing their targets.
However, reports claim that the player is content in North London, and there's genuine hope for a contract extension to be negotiated.
CF: Richarlison
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Richarlison's move to North London from Everton has been super challenging, but the Brazilian forward recently found his best form. With 10 goals and three assists to his name this season, the 26-year-old's scoring form has seen improvement, with a recent dry spell after a remarkable run of nine goals in eight games.
Despite the temporary setback, the forward remains calm to contribute importantly in the remainder of the season, aiming to add six more goals to reach a commendable total of 16 for the campaign.
However, as the Brazil international settles into his role under Ange Postecoglou, Spurs fans will be hopeful for more moments of brilliance from the Brazilian forward in the upcoming, 2024/25 season too.
Tottenham lineup, starting XI for the 2024 / 25 season
Tottenham Hotspur 2024 / 25 squad
Goalkeepers:
13 - Guglielmo Vicario
20 - Fraser Forster
40 - Brandon Austin
41 - Alfie Whiteman
Defenders:
17 - Cristian Romero
37 - Micky van de Ven
6 - Radu Drăgușin
38 - Destiny Udogie
33 - Ben Davies
12 - Pedro Porro
5 - Emerson Royal
Midfielders:
4 - Pierre-Emile Højbjerg
29 - Oliver Skipp
30 - Pape Matar Sarr
8 - Rodrigo Bentancur
19 - Yves Bissouma
10 - Ryan Sessegnon
18 - James Maddison
7 - Giovani Lo Celso
Attackers:
27 - Heung-min Son
21 - Manor Solomon
22 - Dejan Kulusevski
11 - Brennan Johnson
9 - Bryan Gil
16 - Richarlison
Tottenham Hotspur 2024 / 25 transfers IN
- Conor Gallagher (Chelsea) - 70%
- Pedro Neto (Wolves) - 60%
- Jarrad Branthwaite (Everton) - 70%
- Raphinha (Barcelona) - 10%
- Frenkie de Jong (Barcelona) - 5%
- Adrien Rabiot (Juventus) - 5%
Tottenham Hotspur 2024 / 25 transfers OUT
- Bryan Gil: Contract Expiry - Jun 30, 2026 (70%)
- Pierre-Emile Højbjerg: Contract Expiry - Jun 30, 2025 (34%)
- Emerson Royal: Contract Expiry - Jun 30, 2026 (5%)