Five Things Tottenham Must Do to Revive the Club Struggling Under Ange Postecoglou – Jamie Carragher’s Advice
By Jamie Carragher
Tottenham Hotspur started Ange Postecoglou’s reign with energy, optimism, and a style of play that promised something different. Fast forward, and Spurs have hit turbulence. While Postecoglou brought a refreshing attitude and attacking football, the cracks are starting to show – tactically, mentally, and structurally. If Spurs want to get back on track, here’s what I believe they must do immediately.
1. Defensive Structure Has to Be Addressed
Let’s get one thing clear – you can’t build a successful team without a proper defence. Postecoglou’s high line and insistence on playing out from the back is admirable, but it’s also naive at times. Spurs look far too open, especially in transition. The centre-backs are constantly exposed, and the full-backs often push up without proper cover.
The manager needs to tweak his approach. This doesn’t mean abandoning attacking football, but rather installing better balance. There must be a clearer structure in midfield and protection in front of the back four. Even Guardiola adapts when needed – Ange must do the same.
2. Leadership on the Pitch Is Missing
Since Hugo Lloris stepped back, Tottenham haven’t really had a vocal leader. Son is a brilliant footballer, but he’s not the kind to grab a game by the scruff of the neck when it gets tough. Neither is Maddison or Romero, though the latter shows flashes of passion – often more in tackles than in guidance.
This squad needs someone who can demand standards every single match, especially when heads drop. Whether that’s through recruitment or empowering someone already in the squad, the lack of real leadership is costing them points.
3. Invest in Depth – Not Just Starters
One of the major problems for Spurs this season has been how shallow the bench looks. Injuries to Maddison, Bentancur, or Udogie massively affect the way the team plays. When you compare that to the depth at Arsenal, City, or even Aston Villa now, Tottenham fall short.
They can’t keep relying on academy players or short-term plugs like Richarlison rediscovering form. A proper squad overhaul is needed, focusing on bringing in players who are not only quality backups but also capable of challenging starters.
4. Reevaluate the Recruitment Strategy
Postecoglou inherited a squad built by multiple managers – Mourinho, Conte, even Pochettino. The team lacks identity in recruitment. Who are Spurs trying to be? You’ve got aggressive defenders like Romero, technical midfielders like Maddison, and pressing forwards like Kulusevski – but there’s no cohesive direction.
The club needs a defined recruitment identity that matches Postecoglou’s style – aggressive, front-foot players who are comfortable in possession and press smartly. That requires long-term planning and synergy between the manager and the board. Daniel Levy must empower the manager with the right tools, not just the ones on discount.
5. Cultivate a Winning Mentality
This is the biggest hurdle. Tottenham have flirted with success but haven’t crossed the line. You can change tactics, sign new players, and even play beautiful football, but if the players don’t believe they can win the big games, nothing will change.
Spurs need to start treating every game with intensity – not just the North London Derby. Postecoglou has to instil that ruthlessness. That might mean moving on from players who’ve been around too long and are used to falling just short.
Mentality can be built – but it requires results, consistency, and a dressing room that believes they belong at the top.
Final Thought:
I admire what Postecoglou is trying to do. But now comes the real test – adapting without abandoning principles. Spurs have the bones of a strong team. But unless they address these five areas – defence, leadership, depth, recruitment, and mentality – they’ll remain a nearly club.
Time to make hard decisions. And if Ange is the right man, he won’t shy away from them.
