Thread by @martics97

⚪️ Team Analysis : Tottenham Hotspur

🔍 Between balance, patience, variations in positioning : How does Postecoglou wants to control the tempo in/out of possession ?

Example vs Bournemouth

THREAD🧵⤵️

In first phase of build-up, Postecoglou strongly relies on two players. Bissouma, thanks to his excellent ball retention, to draw out the press. Porro, in his new inverted FB role, to accelerate the build-up.

I think Postecoglou wants to have a mix between tempo and acceleration.

I have been surprised by how calm can be Spurs midfield out of possession. Bissouma and Sarr know how to position, added to their consequent work to recorder the ball, Maddison ready to receive to initiate counter attacks.

You evaluate the balance of a midfield by the variations in the positioning. With Postecoglou, each move is compensated by another player. When Maddison drops, Sarr usually steps up forward, while Porro occupies centre area as inverted FB.

When you have Bissouma behind your back, it’s easier to make runs into penalty box without having the fear of being countered. Leaving big distance between the two lines doesn’t matter too much when you see those quick defensive runs from Porro and Sarr.

The opening goal illustrates well Postecoglou’s expectations from midfield : sacrificial runs to create space, patience with the ball and not precipitate offensives.
Maddison to accelerate and run in behind.

Alternante between patience and acceleration at the right time.

I appreciate the way Spurs take their time in possession, always in this idea of controlling the tempo. Maddison dropping brings more options in build-up, and Porro navigating between the flank and midfield brings more variations as well.

Bissouma is a precious profile for Postecoglou, because he can eliminate a pressing with his ball retention. Turn around quickly, slowing down the rhythm, and then accelerate with Maddison and Sarr.

Compared to last year, Spurs lacked of interiors jumping into penalty box, forced to stay in midfield. With Sarr’s excellent runs, Spurs can have one more threat in offense, and pretend to score more goal under Postecoglou.

Spurs 2023/2024 looks totally different in many aspects, but the least we can say is we already see first blueprint Postecoglou wants to leave, especially in midfield. Three complementary players, who perfectly manage the switch between slow down and accelerate the tempo.