How Ange Postecoglou Has Transformed Tottenham Hotspur
Greek-born Ange Postecoglou has dominated the headlines in the English Premier League since taking charge at Tottenham Hotspur this summer.
Despite establishing a reputation as one of the world’s most innovative managers during his time in Australia and Japan, many pundits questioned Postecoglou’s credentials when he arrived in the United Kingdom in 2021.
He subsequently led Scottish giants Celtic to five trophies in two years, before Tottenham finally handed him the chance to manage in one of Europe’s top leagues.
The cynics remained sceptical about his CV, claiming that his previous track record of success would count for little in the rarified atmosphere of the Premier League. Fast forward to today, and Postecoglou’s detractors are already eating humble pie.
Tottenham Enjoying Massive Resurgence Under Postecoglou
After winning five and drawing two of their seven league games this season, Tottenham are just one point behind reigning champions Manchester City. While a title challenge seems unlikely, it would be foolish to underestimate any team managed by Postecoglou.
One of the most noteworthy aspects of Postecoglou’s brief tenure at Tottenham is the belief he has installed in a squad that was previously underperforming. This new-found never-say-die attitude has already manifested itself in several matches this season.
For example, Tottenham were overwhelming favourites with online bookmakers to beat newly-promoted Sheffield United in mid-September. However, the Blades looked on course to upset the odds when they took the lead in the 73rd minute.
Bettors familiar with Postecoglou’s work would no doubt have viewed this as an opportunity, potentially sparking a flurry of the best Australian betting sites. By leveraging the in-play markets, punters were able to lock in a profit regardless of the final outcome.
Given the one-goal deficit, the odds were against Tottenham mounting a comeback, but Postecoglou teams rarely know when they are beaten. Two stoppage time goals turned the game on its head and delivered a tasty winning return for savvy punters.
Tottenham’s ability to overcome tricky situations under Postecoglou was further evidenced in subsequent matches against Arsenal and Liverpool.
They twice came from behind to secure a point against the Gunners at the Emirates Stadium, before claiming a dramatic home victory over Jurgen Klopp’s side last weekend. While it took an own goal to defeat the Reds, Tottenham’s willingness to keep probing was the decisive factor.
Attacking Style has Quickly Found Favour with the Fans
Postecoglou has not just delivered better results at Tottenham but now has the team playing the attacking brand of football their fans crave.
Having endured the pragmatic approach favoured by Jose Mourinho, Nuno Espirito Santo and Antonio Conte, the fans are enjoying watching the team again.
Postecoglou has achieved this by handing chances to several players who have been previously written off. These include Yves Bissouma and Pape Mate Sarr, who have forged a formidable partnership in the middle of the park.
Tottenham’s major summer signings have also made a massive impact. James Maddison has been exceptional as the team’s playmaker, while Micky van de Ven is an excellent addition at the back.
Tottenham’s resurgence becomes even more remarkable when considering that star striker Harry Kane quit the club this summer. While he appears to be enjoying life at Bayern Munich, the England captain must be pondering whether he should have stayed loyal to Tottenham.
Intriguingly, Tottenham look a better team without Kane – a factor that many fans would have believed to be impossible before the season started.
Heung-min Son looks rejuvenated without Kane hogging the limelight, while Richarlison is slowly beginning to show the form that persuaded Tottenham to pay big money to Everton to secure his services.
Given how things have gone during the early part of the season, Tottenham fans can undoubtedly look forward to the future with renewed optimism under Postecoglou.
