Tottenham Hotspur's rocky start to the 2024/25 season has raised eyebrows, but manager Ange Postecoglou remains steadfast in his tactical approach. Known for his stubbornness, which is not necessarily a negative trait, the Australian manager is unlikely to adjust his tactics to suit his players. Instead, he expects them to adapt and align with his strategies.
Postecoglou is a manager who knows what he wants from his team. His unwavering approach may seem unconventional but it has brought him success at former clubs. However, it's worth noting that much of this success did not materialize in the initial seasons.
This explains why Tottenham fans are urged to be patient with their new manager. His track record suggests that while immediate results might not be evident, long-term success could well be on the horizon if given enough time and support.
Defending tactics amidst criticism
In an interview following the October international break, Postecoglou defended his tactical philosophy despite Tottenham's poor start. He acknowledged that while some may find him unorthodox or even stubborn, he has no plans of changing course anytime soon.
Ange Postecoglou, Tottenham Hotspur manager, said:
"What everyone wants me to do is what everyone else does. Now, I’m just not going to do that because there’s a reason I’m here today, it’s not because I’ve done what everyone else does. So I think everyone has their own unique journey to get to somewhere, I didn’t get here by doing what everyone else is doing."
Addressing criticism surrounding him and his tactics, Postecoglou remained unfazed and insisted that such feedback would not influence any changes in his approach or strategy.
Ange Postecoglou added:
“So I get the people who say ‘be more pragmatic’ like everyone else but I don’t want to be like everyone else. What others see as stubbornness or me being dogmatic, I see as real belief in what I’m doing.”
The London Derby will be the test
As football resumes after the international break, all eyes will be on Tottenham vs West Ham in a highly anticipated London derby - a match where form often takes a backseat as both teams vie for bragging rights. Prior to the break, Spurs had managed a string of good results but faltered at their last hurdle by squandering a 2-0 lead over Brighton and Hove Albion. This lapse, attributed to complacency, is something Postecoglou will aim to rectify in the upcoming games.
If the current trend continues, Postecoglou may eventually have to consider the criticism and possibly reassess his tactics. However, for now, he remains committed to his approach and asks for patience from fans as he navigates through this challenging phase of Tottenham's season.
While Tottenham's start under Ange Postecoglou has been less than ideal, it's important for fans and critics alike to remember that success often takes time. With a proven track record at previous clubs and an unwavering belief in his tactical approach, there is reason to believe that better days could be ahead for Spurs under their new manager.
