Tottenham Hotspur 2024/25: Two Smart Signings To Solve Spurs’ Struggles…

Tottenham Hotspur 2024/25: Two Smart Signings To Solve Spurs’ Struggles

 

 

Spurs’ Struggles: A Season of Missed Opportunities

 

Tottenham’s 2023/24 season was defined by inconsistency. There were flashes of brilliance, with Harry Kane continuing to deliver despite the turmoil surrounding the club, and new manager Ange Postecoglou offering a tactical blueprint that, at times, showed promise. However, there were also significant weaknesses that became increasingly evident as the season progressed. The squad’s lack of depth, especially in midfield and defence, was clear for all to see. Spurs lacked creativity and defensive stability, both of which hampered their ability to mount a serious challenge for European spots.

 

One of the most glaring issues was the midfield. While Spurs were relatively solid defensively with the likes of Cristian Romero leading the backline, they often lacked a midfielder capable of unlocking opposition defences. The attack, meanwhile, relied heavily on Kane’s individual brilliance, which led to a one-dimensional offensive approach. Moreover, a lack of depth in key areas of the squad left Postecoglou with limited options when injuries or suspensions struck.

 

These issues did not go unnoticed by the Tottenham hierarchy. Spurs’ recruitment strategy was already under scrutiny, and it was clear that the club needed to act quickly in the summer of 2024 to avoid another underwhelming season.

 

The Need for a Playmaker

 

One of the most pressing concerns for Tottenham is their lack of creativity in the midfield. Despite possessing talented players like Yves Bissouma and Rodrigo Bentancur, Spurs struggled to dictate the tempo of matches and create meaningful chances from midfield. Too often, the team looked reliant on Kane’s link-up play, but when he was absent, the team seemed to lack the necessary vision to break down opposition defences.

 

A playmaker who can deliver incisive passes and control the flow of the game is critical for Spurs to evolve under Postecoglou’s tactical setup. The Australian manager’s philosophy demands a fluid attacking approach, but without a midfielder who can orchestrate attacks, Spurs will continue to struggle in breaking down teams with low defensive blocks or possess a lack of invention when it comes to making the final pass.

 

There have been suggestions that Spurs could move for a player capable of playing in the No.10 role or a deep-lying playmaker to anchor their midfield. The ideal signing would be someone who can provide a creative spark while also having the tactical awareness to shield the defence when necessary.

 

Target 1: James Maddison

 

One player who stands out as a potential signing for Tottenham is James Maddison of Leicester City. Maddison has long been linked with a move to a bigger club, and after Leicester’s relegation from the Premier League in 2023, the 2024/25 season may be the perfect time for him to make a step up. The 27-year-old playmaker has been one of the standout performers in a struggling Leicester side and has proven his ability to score goals and provide assists in abundance.

 

Maddison’s creative output would be a massive asset to Spurs. His vision, passing range, and ability to pick out teammates in dangerous positions would significantly improve the club’s attacking play. Additionally, Maddison has an eye for goal, as shown by his impressive tally of goals and assists in the Premier League, which could offer Spurs another reliable source of attacking output.

 

Tactically, Maddison’s ability to play as a No.10 or as an attacking midfielder in a deeper role makes him versatile and adaptable to Postecoglou’s system. His technical skills would fit well in a team that aims to dominate possession and create chances through intricate passing. Spurs would need to act quickly, though, as other top clubs are also reportedly interested in the England international.

 

Target 2: Dominik Szoboszlai

 

Another name that could emerge as a potential target for Spurs is Dominik Szoboszlai from RB Leipzig. The Hungarian international has been one of the standout midfielders in the Bundesliga and has attracted attention from clubs across Europe. Szoboszlai is an incredibly dynamic and technically gifted player, capable of contributing both in terms of creating chances and scoring goals.

 

The 23-year-old would be an excellent fit for Postecoglou’s system, as he combines creativity with work rate. Szoboszlai can play in a variety of midfield roles, ranging from central midfield to attacking midfield, and his ability to operate in tight spaces would add an additional dimension to Spurs’ midfield. His dribbling ability, combined with his vision and long-range passing, would allow him to dictate the tempo of games and create opportunities for Spurs’ attacking players.

 

Szoboszlai’s recent performances for Leipzig, particularly in the Champions League, have showcased his potential to perform on the big stage. His ability to make late runs into the box and provide dangerous deliveries from wide positions would provide Spurs with a new outlet in the final third.

 

The Need for a Central Defender

 

While Spurs have solidified their backline with Cristian Romero, the defence as a whole is far from watertight. Although Romero’s leadership and individual brilliance are valuable assets, Tottenham often looks vulnerable, especially against teams that use pace and direct attacking play. The club needs a more balanced central defensive partnership to complement Romero’s aggressive style. Spurs require a defender who is composed under pressure, excellent in the air, and capable of playing out from the back to help build attacking moves.

 

Another key issue is Spurs’ lack of depth in the defensive unit. With the departure of experienced players like Eric Dier, and the ongoing injury struggles of players like Ben Davies, the team has struggled to field a consistent and reliable defensive partnership. For Postecoglou’s preferred attacking style to succeed, Spurs need to be more solid at the back, with defenders who can read the game well and contribute to building play out of defence.

 

Target 3: Micky van de Ven

 

One potential solution to Tottenham’s defensive woes could be the signing of Micky van de Ven from Wolfsburg. The Dutch centre-back is a rising star in European football and has caught the eye of top clubs across the continent. Van de Ven is a modern centre-back, known for his pace, composure on the ball, and ability to defend both aerially and in one-on-one situations. His strengths align with Postecoglou’s preference for playing out from the back, as he is comfortable with the ball at his feet and can quickly transition from defence to attack.

 

At just 23 years old, Van de Ven has already impressed in the Bundesliga, and his potential is widely regarded as immense. His agility and reading of the game would make him an ideal partner for Romero, who tends to be more aggressive and physical in his approach. Together, they could form a formidable defensive duo that balances out their contrasting playing styles.

 

Van de Ven’s potential for growth and his ability to adapt to the demands of the Premier League make him a smart investment for Tottenham. Spurs could look to secure his services before the prices rise further, as Van de Ven’s performances have already caught the attention of several top European clubs.

 

Target 4: Pau Torres

 

Another centre-back option for Spurs could be Pau Torres from Villarreal. The 27-year-old Spaniard has been consistently linked with a move to the Premier League, and his ability to play out from the back and contribute to build-up play would fit Postecoglou’s philosophy. Torres has long been regarded as one of Spain’s brightest defensive talents, known for his calmness on the ball and tactical intelligence. His composure and leadership would help bring much-needed stability to Tottenham’s defence.

 

Torres has vast experience in La Liga and in European competition, and his ability to read the game would complement Romero’s more aggressive defending. While not the fastest defender, Torres excels in positioning and his aerial duels, both of which are vital attributes for a Premier League centre-back. His technical abilities would enable Spurs to build from the back, which would be vital for Postecoglou’s high-pressing system.

 

Conclusion: A New Era for Spurs?

 

For Tottenham Hotspur to return to the upper echelons of English football, two key signings would make a significant difference in addressing the team’s struggles. A creative midfielder like James Maddison or Dominik Szoboszlai would provide the necessary invention and spark in the final third, while a new centre-back like Micky van de Ven or Pau Torres would add the defensive solidity that Spurs desperately need.

 

These signings would provide the balance that Spurs have been missing, offering quality in both attack and defence while addressing the tactical needs of Ange Postecoglou’s system. With a focus on building a more complete squad, Spurs can look ahead with renewed optimism for the 2024/25 season. It may just be the beginning of a new era for Tottenham Hotspur, one that is more competitive and capable of challenging for major honours once again.