Dejan Kulusevski has made a remarkable transformation under Ange Postecoglou. From a reserve player, the Swedish star has become an indispensable factor in the Spurs squad. It is the 24-year-old midfielder's playing style that has helped the "Roosters" become more flexible, not only in controlling the ball but also in the ability to apply pressure when losing the ball, helping the team quickly regain control.
Last season, Kulusevski was often deployed on the right wing, competing with Brennan Johnson. Although he was tested in the “number 10” role to support James Maddison, at that time the most suitable position for the former Juventus star was playing on the wing.
One of Kulusevski’s weaknesses is his lack of pace, which has made it difficult for him to play out wide. Despite his quick thinking, the Swede has often been outclassed in duels with opposing full-backs.
However, this season, Postecoglou has adapted Kulusevski to play in the centre of midfield and Tottenham have become stronger because of this, the 2000-born star's quick thinking has compensated for the limitations in pace that were often exposed in Postecoglou's favoured 4-3-3 formation.
Despite only having one assist in the Premier League this season, this figure does not reflect Dejan Kulusevski's true contribution. Statistics show that he has made 23 key passes, ranking 5th in the league. Notably, 18 of these have come from open play, ranking 3rd in the league.
This shows Kulusevski's great influence in creating chances for his teammates, even though Spurs' scoring efficiency is not really good. Being pushed into the center helps him optimize his vision, thereby creating delicate passes, penetrating the opponent's defense.
Not only good at creating, the 24-year-old midfielder also shows his ability to press very well and often leaves opponents with very few passing options, especially in the final third of the field. Since the beginning of the season, Tottenham has had the second highest possession rate in the Premier League (61.7%). However, the most outstanding point is the ability to apply high pressure when losing the ball and quickly regain control.
This is also why Postecoglou sought to sign Dominic Solanke this summer. The former Bournemouth man is one of the most diligent strikers in the game when it comes to pressing. Kulusevski’s central role has provided the support needed for Solanke to keep the pressure on. Spurs currently lead the league in winning possession in the attacking third (60), and Kulusevski ranks highest in this metric with 13.
Although Tottenham have not really broken through this season, only standing 7th after 8 rounds, Kulusevski's performance is not only a bright spot but also a hope for Spurs in the rest of the campaign. He has proven to be consistent and is one of Spurs' most impressive players this season.
In addition to his attacking ability, Kulusevski is also very aggressive in defense, always proactively preventing the opponent's attack. He is even the player who has committed the most fouls for Tottenham this season with 13 times. That shows that not only his attacking skills, but also his fighting spirit is very admirable.
Ange Postecoglou is known for winning trophies in his second season in charge and the decision to use Kulusevski in a central midfield role could be key to Tottenham ending their long trophy drought.
