The North London air still hums with the memory of the previous season`s roller-coaster, but at Tottenham Hotspur, a new chapter is rapidly unfolding under the pragmatic guidance of manager Thomas Frank. After a summer of significant changes, including a high-profile managerial switch and key player movements, the team finds itself navigating a challenging landscape. Yet, early indications suggest Frank isn`t just treading water; he`s orchestrating a subtle, yet profound, tactical evolution that is already paying dividends.
From Open Play Woes to Set-Piece Prowess
Last season, Tottenham`s narrative was often one of dazzling individual moments interspersed with defensive vulnerabilities, particularly from dead-ball situations. A paltry 10 goals scored from set pieces contrasted sharply with a concerning 13 conceded, placing them firmly in the lower echelons of the Premier League in both metrics. This season, however, a stark reversal is underway. With only four games played, Spurs have already netted twice from set plays and, crucially, are yet to concede one.
The transformation isn`t accidental. It`s the meticulously drilled consequence of Thomas Frank`s philosophy. The recent 3-0 victory over West Ham United served as a compelling demonstration. The opening goal, a precise corner kick delivery from new signing Xavi Simons finding the head of Pape Sarr, was a clear example of a rehearsed routine executed to perfection. Even Cristian Romero`s disallowed goal, originating from a dead-ball situation, underscored the constant threat Frank`s side now poses. Deliveries from both Simons and Mohammed Kudus are consistently landing in dangerous areas, turning every corner and free-kick into a potential scoring opportunity.
It’s a curious, almost ironic, turn for a club often lauded for its free-flowing, attacking football. While rivals like Arsenal have been dubbed “Set Piece FC” for their consistent aerial threat, Tottenham are swiftly carving out their own reputation in this often-underestimated facet of the game.
The Crucial Impact of New Blood: Simons and Kudus
The summer transfer window, despite some initial bumps, ultimately delivered shrewd acquisitions that are proving instrumental. The arrivals of Xavi Simons and Mohammed Kudus have injected creativity and dynamism that were sorely needed, especially in the absence of talismanic figures.
Without the prolific Heung-min Son, who embarked on a new challenge with Los Angeles FC, and creative linchpins James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski, the attacking onus has shifted. Simons and Kudus, with their technical prowess and vision, have stepped into these voids with remarkable ease. Their ability to deliver precision passes and create chances, particularly from set-piece situations, has immediately elevated the team`s threat. This proactive approach in the transfer market, securing players who can impact the game from various positions, reflects a strategic foresight that is now yielding early returns.
Navigating the Transition: A Work in Progress, But Not a Relapse
While the set-piece efficacy is undeniable, it`s important to acknowledge that the team remains a work in progress. Finding fluidity in open play without some of its most influential attackers will take time and careful integration. The process of fitting all the new pieces together, especially in possession, is an ongoing tactical puzzle for Frank.
However, what is unequivocally clear is that this Tottenham side is a far cry from the disjointed unit that finished 17th in the league last season. The expectations are understandably high, particularly after winning the Europa League under Frank and securing a return to Champions League football. With a draw that includes fixtures against Villarreal, Bodo/Glimt, Monaco, Copenhagen, Paris Saint-Germain, Slavia Praha, Borussia Dortmund, and Eintracht Frankfurt, Spurs will need every ounce of their newfound resilience and tactical discipline.
The defensive improvements, coupled with the set-piece threat, provide a solid foundation. This allows Frank valuable time to fine-tune his best XI and integrate his tactical vision more comprehensively. The UEFA Super Cup clash, where Tottenham initially held a two-goal lead against PSG before a second-half collapse, offered both a glimpse of their potential and a stark reminder of the work ahead. Frank is tasked with balancing multiple competitions, and the initial signs suggest he has a coherent plan to achieve that.
Should Kudus and Simons continue to click, and the set-piece advantage persist, Tottenham are poised to defy early season challenges. The ambition extends beyond simply navigating the group stage of the Champions League; a strong push for a top-four finish in the Premier League also seems firmly within their grasp. Thomas Frank`s early tenure is not just about masking weaknesses; it`s about systematically building a resilient, tactically astute team ready to surprise.
