Tottenham Hotspur are undergoing a period of tactical transition under new manager Thomas Frank, who has introduced a more pragmatic and structured approach.
While this shift has produced mixed reactions, Spurs currently sit fifth in the Premier League after 11 matches, a respectable position for a side still adapting to a fresh philosophy. Despite some inconsistencies, the North London club has managed to stay competitive, losing only three games so far this season.
The attacking side of Tottenham’s game, however, remains a concern. Goals have been scored, but the underlying statistics suggest there is still work to do in improving creativity and fluidity in the final third.
The absence of Dejan Kulusevski and James Maddison since the start of the campaign has undoubtedly limited Tottenham’s attacking options. Both players are key creative figures, and their injuries have exposed a lack of depth in that department.
| Premier League 2025/26 – xG Leaders | Club Position | xG |
|---|---|---|
| Chelsea | 3rd | 20.4 |
| Crystal Palace | 2nd | 19.4 |
| Manchester City | 10th | 19.0 |
| Arsenal | 1st | 18.8 |
| Manchester United | 7th | 18.2 |
| Tottenham Hotspur | 5th | 11.0 |
| Data Source: FBref |
The expected goals (xG) metric highlights Tottenham’s need to create more high-quality chances. As Frank prepares for the upcoming international break, he must evaluate his squad carefully and find ways to blend his pragmatic philosophy with a sharper attacking edge.
His task is to make the team’s style appear proactive and progressive, rather than overly cautious and reminiscent of the Nuno Espírito Santo era.
Tottenham’s recent match against Manchester United reflected both progress and lingering issues. Despite conceding a late equaliser to Matthijs de Ligt after Richarlison’s goal, the team showed resilience and improved spirit. Frank rightly chose to focus on the positives, but he knows several areas still need refinement.
One glaring issue has been Tottenham’s lack of balance on the left flank. The decision to pair Djed Spence and Richarlison in wide positions hasn’t worked. Spence, playing out of his natural position, lacks the attacking instincts to provide width, while Richarlison’s technical limitations have made that side predictable.
When Destiny Udogie and Wilson Odobert linked up in the second half, Tottenham immediately looked more dangerous, proving that proper positioning and chemistry are crucial.
Frank must also address the team’s worrying home form. In their last 20 matches at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, the team has managed only three wins. While away performances have improved and the squad has gained defensive solidity, the lack of confidence and creativity at home remains a concern. To climb higher, Tottenham must rediscover fluency, purpose, and confidence in possession.
The midfield, in particular, has been inconsistent. Frank needs to make bold decisions, including re-evaluating the role of Rodrigo Bentancur.
The Uruguayan midfielder, signed from Juventus for nearly £22 million in January 2022, initially impressed with his composure and versatility. However, under Frank’s system, he seems increasingly out of sync with the team’s tactical demands.
| Rodrigo Bentancur – Premier League Record | Season | Apps | Minutes Played |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025/26 | 10 | 659’ | |
| 2024/25 | 26 | 1,653’ | |
| 2023/24 | 23 | 1,007’ | |
| 2022/23 | 18 | 1,506’ | |
| 2021/22 | 17 | 1,365’ | |
| Data Source: Transfermarkt |
Despite signing a new contract and earning a salary of around £120,000 per week, Bentancur’s influence has waned. Analyst Raj Chohan even described him as a “candidate for the worst centre-midfielder at a big six club.”
The problem lies in his partnership with Joao Palhinha. Both players operate as deep, defensive-minded midfielders, leaving the team short of progressive passing and attacking drive.
Statistically, Bentancur ranks among the bottom 39% of Premier League midfielders for progressive passes per 90 minutes this season, while Palhinha ranks even lower at 11%. This combination has led to slow build-up play and predictable transitions.
Frank recognised the issue when he benched Bentancur against Manchester United, ending his run of six consecutive starts. Although Pape Matar Sarr didn’t perform flawlessly, his energy and positivity offered a refreshing contrast.
Younger talents like Lucas Bergvall have shown glimpses of creativity and drive that Tottenham’s midfield desperately needs. While he is still adapting, his potential partnership with Palhinha could offer a better balance between defensive stability and forward thrust.
Ultimately, Bentancur’s new contract doesn’t make him unsellable. In fact, it could increase his market value. Clubs like Atletico Madrid have previously shown interest, and if Tottenham wish to fully embrace Frank’s evolving system, cashing in on Bentancur might be the right step.
As the squad regains injured stars like Maddison and Kulusevski, Tottenham’s attack will naturally improve. However, if Frank wants a midfield that complements his structured yet forward-thinking style, he may need to part ways with players who no longer fit the vision. Bentancur’s technical ability and experience are undeniable, but his limitations within this system make him expendable. Selling him could be the catalyst for Tottenham to truly evolve under Thomas Frank’s management.
