Two weeks ago, Tottenham fans imagined a failed season when they lost to Arsenal at home in the North London Derby. That was when Spurs had won just one of their four games of the season. The dream start of last season has become a completely opposite reality compared to this season.
The victory over Man United at Old Trafford last Sunday was the first time under Ange Postecoglou that Tottenham have won against a Big Six team away from home. Although the opponent played with one less player and was in declining form, it is not to deny what Spurs have done.
Right from the opening whistle, the white team rushed into the opponent's half to attack. That is what the "Rooster" fans want to see, as Postecoglou has done since last season. The breakthrough through the M.U defense from center back Micky van de Ven proved the determination and boldness in the way the away team entered the match.
In the first half, Tottenham created an expected goals (xG) of up to 4.7. Bruno Fernandes being sent off in the 42nd minute cannot be an excuse for Man United's weakness. Simply put, Tottenham dared to play, dared to take risks and achieved unexpected success.
One of Postecoglou's successes has been to bring Dejan Kulusevski from the right wing to play as a central midfielder. The Swedish star's coordination with James Maddison is considered very good, increasing the creativity and innovation of Spurs' midfield. After the match, the Australian captain himself admitted that the two students coordinated very well, creating balance in the attacking play in the opponent's third.
Against Man United, Kulusevski created up to 9 big chances, the most by a player visiting Old Trafford since 2003. The Swedish midfielder said the performance was like a dream because every player would want to play at Old Trafford in such a sublime state.
Tottenham are gradually regaining inspiration after the victory but cannot put aside the shortcomings that have existed since the beginning of the season that have caused them to struggle. A typical example is the strikers' ability to take advantage of opportunities, especially in the case of Timo Werner. The German star had 2 face-to-face matches with Andre Onana but could not beat the M.U goalkeeper. Not only that, Dominic Solanke's positioning skills are also limited, leading to him often not being able to choose a space to shoot smoothly.
Another thing that is easy to see is that Spurs' squad lacks depth. All those who were allowed to start in the Super Sunday match last Sunday were the best players. If they race long distances and rotate, Postecoglou and his team will easily encounter a weak state like the match against Coventry City in the League Cup.
Anyway, winning is still the most important thing, Postecoglou has seen all the internal problems. From now until the winter transfer window opens, Spurs need to stand firm before considering a breakthrough in the remaining stages of the season.
