tottenhamhotspurnews.com

Mohammed Kudus debut analysed – Tottenham have new lead man who deserves spot in the Louvre

Submitted by daniel on
Picture
Remote Image
Mohammed Kudus debut analysed - Tottenham have new lead man who deserves spot in the Louvre - tottenhamhotspurnews.com
Description

Mohammed Kudus has emerged as Tottenham’s new star man after his sensational Premier League debut against Burnley.

Tottenham produced a 3-0 win against Burnley in their opening Premier League game of the season on Saturday, 16 August.

Richarlison netted two incredible goals for Spurs on the day – but it was Kudus who stole all the headlines.

The right winger created ample attacking threat from start to finish. His precision, decisiveness and power saw him produce one of the best debuts at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in recent history.

Kudus masterfully sets Richarlison up for the volley

Kudus’ back-to-back crosses for Richarlison were a mastery that should be hung in the Louvre.

MORE SPURS STORIES

The first goal was all down to his impressive wing play down the right channel.

The right winger received a pass from Pape Matar Sarr with his back to goal in the right half space. He shifted the ball onto his left foot before flicking it behind.

On the turn, he readjusted and reclaimed the ball on the touchline before running it down the channel, lofting in a high cross to Richarlison, who took it on the volley.

It was a spectacularly worked goal which highlighted the winger’s freak acceleration, pace and technical quality.

Kudus’ second assist was one for the ages

There is no doubt that the bewildering physical quality of Richarlison’s scissor-kick goal stole attention from the sheer brilliance of Kudus’s assist.

But his work from the right half-space should not be understated. Kudus received a pass from Pedro Porro near the edge of the area and proceeded to size up Burnley’s Quilindschy Hartman.

One-on-one with the left-back, Spurs’ new signing shifted the ball onto his right foot with an insane change of pace. Before sending in another precise cross, which Richarlison spectacularly latched onto.

Two sublime crosses. Two sensational goals. This emerging attacking duo may be the ones to define Tottenham’s season.

How does Kudus’s performance compare to James Maddison’s debut?

Against Burnley, Kudus became the second player to provide two or more assists on his Premier League debut for Tottenham after James Maddison.

While both players provided two assists on their debuts, Maddison’s were of a better and higher quality. The midfielder also took the cake when it came to passes into the final third, providing six more than his teammate.

However, Kudus offered more precision and range in his passing. The right winger’s crosses and long balls were more accurate and direct compared to the Englishman’s. He was also a greater dribbling and one-on-one threat, which makes sense given their roles on the pitch.

Therefore, while both provided ample creative opportunities. Kudus’ combination of technicality, chance creation and direction saw him made him more threatening.

The Verdict

It was an overall stunning display from the right-winger. From his wing play to cutting-edge when in the box – Kudus had it all.

There are several key takeaways from his performance:

All in all, the right winger’s display was masterful to witness. After the departure of Son Heung-min from Tottenham, there were questions of whether another leading man would take his place.

Following back-to-back elite performances in the UEFA Super Cup final and the Premier League, it seems Spurs have found their man.

‘Sensational’ – Alan Shearer wowed by MOTD footage of what Tottenham star did v Burnley

Submitted by daniel on
Picture
Remote Image
‘Sensational’ – Alan Shearer wowed by MOTD footage of what Tottenham star did v Burnley - tottenhamhotspurnews.com
Description

Tottenham Hotspur kicked off their Premier League campaign in emphatic fashion by defeating Burnley 3-0 in North London on Saturday.

While rival fans may turn their nose up at the result and state it was a game Spurs were meant to win, Thomas Frank and Co. needed to get off to a winning start and instil a feel-good atmosphere within the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

The Lilywhites were unfortunate not to get their hands on more European silverware, as they suffered a heartbreaking defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Super Cup on penalties, with the Spurs faithful hoping Frank is the man to lead them into many more finals.

Just like he did against PSG, new signing Mohammed Kudus impressed again against Burnley, but it was another player who caught the eye of Alan Shearer.

Shearer labels Richarlison bicycle kick as ‘sensational’

Richarlison netted two goals against the Premier League newcomers, with the Brazilian hoping to have a new lease of life on his Spurs career under Frank.

MORE SPURS STORIES

Richarlison, 28, has been linked with a move away from North London over the summer but now looks set to be a part of Tottenham’s project for the upcoming campaign.

The forward opened the scoring in the 10th minute with an excellent half volley, but his second goal on the hour mark is what captured the headlines.

Speaking on Match of the Day on 16 August, Shearer shared his thoughts on what is surely going to be a contender for the goal of the season by the time May rolls around.

“That is just sensational, it really is, it’s an incredible finish,” Shearer said when watching Richarlison’s acrobatic effort

Frank evidently a fan of Richarlison

Speaking in his pre-game press conference ahead of the game, Frank had been impressed with the former Everton and Watford man’s performance against PSG: “I think Richy was really phenomenal (against PSG),

“His hold up play, his intensity, his pressing, his arriving in the box, some of it was really top, his attitude, top, top, top. I hope to see more of that.”

If Richarlison can keep impressing his new manager as he has done against PSG and Burnley, then he could ensure he becomes one of the first names on the team sheet throughout this season.

Eberechi Eze makes Crystal Palace decision as Tottenham may now fear the worst

Submitted by daniel on
Picture
Remote Image
Eberechi Eze makes Crystal Palace decision as Tottenham may now fear the worst - tottenhamhotspurnews.com
Description

Crystal Palace attacking midfielder Eberechi Eze has been linked with a move to Tottenham in the final weeks of the transfer window.

Spurs are keen on Eze after they failed to secure the services of Nottingham Forest star Morgan Gibbs-White.

Thomas Frank wants Tottenham to sign new players ahead of the transfer deadline as Champions League qualification is the target for this season.

Eze expected to start for Crystal Palace vs Chelsea

According to Thomas Barclay, sources close to Eze indicated on Saturday that he was unlikely to feature against Chelsea on 17 August, hinting at a potential transfer.

However, the Sun journalist added, his inclusion suggests no deal with Spurs is close, despite their interest.

MORE SPURS STORIES

The 27-year-old’s expected start for Palace could signal trouble for Spurs’ pursuit of the dynamic attacking midfielder.

If Eze was certain of joining Tottenham, he might have requested to be left out of Palace’s lineup to avoid risking injury, a common practice for players on the verge of a move.

His decision to play, coupled with the Lilywhites’ insistence that no deal is imminent, indicates stalled negotiations, possibly due to Palace’s firm stance on their £60million-plus valuation or Eze’s own hesitation.

Tottenham fans likely to be frustrated with Daniel Levy

This development could frustrate Spurs fans, who have long coveted Eze’s flair, creativity and proven Premier League quality, which are all attributes that could elevate Frank’s system.

Fan discontent may intensify toward Daniel Levy, already criticised for perceived frugality in transfers.

Failing to secure Eze could undermine Spurs’ top-four ambitions, especially after a mixed start to the season.

Palace’s willingness to play the England international suggests confidence in retaining him, potentially forcing the Europa League winners to pivot to other targets.

If the hierarchy cannot finalise this deal before the window closes, the backlash against Levy could escalate, with supporters questioning the club’s ambition and ability to compete with rivals who have been more decisive in the market.

‘Rodrigo Bentancur to receive £100,000-a-week offer’ amid Tottenham exit worries

Submitted by daniel on
Picture
Remote Image
‘Rodrigo Bentancur to receive £100,000-a-week offer’ amid Tottenham exit worries - tottenhamhotspurnews.com
Description

Rodrigo Bentancur’s future will have alarm bells ringing at Tottenham.

The Uruguayan has become an increasingly important figure for the Lilywhites over the course of the last 12 months, and is now at the point where he is arguably one of the first names on the teamsheet.

Joao Palhinha’s arrival at Spurs seems unlikely to have any effect on the 28-year-old at this moment in time, given that Thomas Frank opted to start the pair alongside each other in the middle of the park in the recent UEFA Super Cup final.

Bentancur’s experience should make him a crucial figure for Frank under his new regime, but concerns remain regarding the lack of security surrounding his current position in N17.

This article includes exclusive comment from former Tottenham scout Bryan King.

MORE SPURS STORIES

Tottenham to line up fresh Bentancur deal as Atletico lurk

Bentancur’s contract situation at Tottenham is approaching the stage where it could become a real problem for Frank and Co.

The star has just one year remaining on his current deal at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, and would be able to sign a pre-contract agreement with a side elsewhere in Europe as early as January.

With Atletico Madrid lurking having shown intent earlier in the transfer window, there is now a renewed sense of urgency for Spurs to sit down with the midfielder and make inroads towards a new deal.

Ex-Spurs scout Bryan King – speaking exclusively to Tottenham News – believes that the Lilywhites will be keen to line up a new deal for Bentancur, and also expects that it could bring a significant pay rise for the former Juventus man.

“I like him, I think he’s a quality footballer and he’s proved that he’s a central part of the squad,” King said.

“If I was Tottenham, I’d offer him another year, or two.

“He’s a disciplined player, he works hard at his game. He’s a good club man, if I was Tottenham I certainly wouldn’t want to get rid of him.

“You’d certainly think it would put him on around £100,000 per week. I don’t know if he’s on any kind of league position bonus or goal bonus at the minute.

“If he was going to sign a new deal, he’d certainly have to get a rise from the money that he’s on now.”

Bentancur could become one of the highest earners at Spurs

Tottenham need to move quickly to keep Bentancur around, and any potential contract extension would likely bump him up among the highest earners in N17.

The Uruguayan is understood to currently command a weekly wage of around £75,000, according to Capology estimates, but that is a far cry from the likes of James Maddison, Cristian Romero, and even his new partner Palhinha.

However, if an increase to around the £100,000-a-week mark were to materialise, that would sit him inside the five biggest earners within the squad.

Bentancur may have additional considerations as to where he plays his football than purely financial reasons, but it certainly wouldn’t hurt Spurs’ chances of keeping him if they were to table the offer of a pay rise.

Savinho deal broker jets into London for Tottenham talks as huge bid made

Submitted by daniel on
Picture
Remote Image
Savinho deal broker jets into London for Tottenham talks as huge bid made - tottenhamhotspurnews.com
Description

Savinho’s proposed move to Tottenham Hotspur has become one of the biggest transfer stories of the summer.

The Brazilian struggled in his first campaign in England after arriving at Manchester City from Girona last summer, and Spurs are interested in bringing the 21-year-old to North London.

Savinho was left out of Man City’s squad for their opening day 4-0 victory at Wolverhampton Wanderers due to injury.

Tottenham are keen on bringing in more attacking players this summer after losing James Maddison to a long-term injury, with both Savinho and Eberechi Eze top targets for Thomas Frank.

Savinho’s agent in London for talks as initial Tottenham bid rejected

Spurs have reportedly seen an initial £45million bid for Savinho turned down by Pep Guardiola’s side.

MORE SPURS STORIES

The Sunday Mirror’s print edition (17 August, page 70) has reported that Savinho’s agent, Rodrigo Zeitel, is currently in face-to-face talks with Tottenham in London this weekend over the deal.

Guardiola wants the winger to stay at the Etihad this summer, saying on Friday, prior to the win at Wolves, that he wanted to keep the 21-year-old for “many, many years”.

Savinho’s omission from the City line-up at Molineux has raised more questions about his future after uploading an Instagram story of himself, which suggested he was fit to play.

Interestingly, Spurs’ next fixture is at the Etihad, so any deal may be delayed until after Saturday’s clash to avoid the winger facing his former side from the off.

Savinho’s arrival would leave Spurs well-stacked in the forward positions

Tottenham strengthened their attack early in the window with the arrival of Mohammed Kudus, who shined against Burnley on the opening day.

While Spurs’ attack has looked fluid so far, it is a very thin line-up due to Maddison’s injury and Son Heung-min’s departure to LAFC.

Arrivals of Eze and Savinho would help stock up offensive options for Frank, and help them avoid any worries of an injury crisis like last season.

Richarlison sends Tottenham fans message after emphatic display vs Burnley

Submitted by daniel on
Picture
Remote Image
Richarlison sends Tottenham fans message after emphatic display vs Burnley - tottenhamhotspurnews.com
Description

Richarlison was the star of the show as Tottenham dismantled Burnley 3-0 on Saturday.

Frank got off to the perfect start to his domestic tenure in North London, with a resounding display against the Premier League new boys.

Richarlison stunned for Spurs, having delivered two goals, one of which can only be described as a belter from Mohammed Kudus’ assists.

With the Brazilian back to his best, fans will be buzzing about what he has said after the victory.

Richarlison sends love to Tottenham fans after Burnley brace

Dominic Solanke may be finished at Tottenham after the performance Richarlison delivered on home turf.

MORE SPURS STORIES

Many expected Frank to axe Richarlison for the opening game of the Premier League, but they will be relieved he refrained.

The 28-year-old has endured a torrid time in North London, failing to hit the highs of his Everton days.

However, the forward surprised many by delivering an eye-catching performance against PSG in the UEFA Super Cup.

Against Burnley, Richarlison continued his fine form, scoring twice as he staked a claim for a place in Frank’s team.

Tottenham shared the 28-year-old’s message to supporters via social media on 16 August.

Richarlison said: “Hello, fans, thank you for your support, two amazing goals, enjoy this night, bye.”

Richarlison gives Frank something to think about

A Richarlison renaissance is not something many would have predicted heading into the 2025/26 season.

However, after just two matches, the Brazil international has demonstrated that he can still cut it in North London.

Yes, some will say it was Burnley he scored a brace against, but he also put in an admirable performance against PSG.

Indeed, he may well have played himself into Frank’s plans, and with the Lilywhites fighting on fronts this season, he will be needed.

Richarlison has always demonstrated a superb effort in North London, even when things are not going his way.

Now, with things moving in a positive direction, he has the chance to thrive again in the Premier League.

Mark Schwarzer says Mohammed Kudus must do one thing to become even better at Tottenham

Submitted by daniel on
Picture
Remote Image
Mark Schwarzer says Mohammed Kudus must do one thing to become even better at Tottenham - tottenhamhotspurnews.com
Description

Mohammed Kudus impressed on his competitive debut as Tottenham beat Burnley 3-0 in their Premier League opener.

The winger picked up two assists for Richarlison, who enjoyed a stunning display at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Brennnan Johnson’s second-half goal capped off a perfect opening display for Spurs, with fans blown away by Kudus’ competitive debut.

There will be points to improve on for Thomas Frank; however, after Tottenham conceded twice as many shots as they took in the first half.

Mark Schwarzer calls on Mohammed Kudus to add consistency

Spurs signed Kudus from West Ham last month in a deal worth around £55million, with the 24-year-old signing a six-year deal at The Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

MORE SPURS STORIES

And the Ghanaian looked to settle in immediately in Lilywhite, providing an assist on his friendly debut against Reading.

Kudus enjoyed a strong start to life in the Premier League upon his arrival at West Ham in 2023, but struggled at times last season.

The midfielder ended the season with just five goals and three assists in the league, and was often accused of going missing when his team were struggling.

Former Chelsea and Fulham goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer has challenged Kudus to disprove that narrative.

Speaking to BBC Sport on 16 August, the Australian said: “I think Mohammed Kudus could be a really good acquisition. We saw sometimes at West Ham he was a little ill-disciplined, loses his head a little bit.

“No doubting his ability on the ball – he’s got pace and energy, loves to take players on.

“He just needs to be more consistent at Tottenham, and there is more responsibility on his shoulders now that Son Heung-min has gone.”

Mohammed Kudus gets off to perfect start at Tottenham

Kudus is expected to provide much of the threat out wide for Tottenham this season, with left-winger Johnson often preferring to drift into the box.

And against Burnley, that threat was portrayed perfectly, with the Clarets struggling to cope with the wingers movement.

Kudus may well have registered more than two assists on the day, creating five chances and providing five accurate crosses.

The Ghanaian also won two free-kicks and completed two successful dribbles, on what was a perfect start to Kudus’ time at Spurs.

With Tottenham are looking to sign another attacking midfielder following the injury to James Maddison, that threat can only be expected to become more prominent with additional support.

Thomas Frank makes baffling decision as unlikely Tottenham duo handed starts vs Burnley

Submitted by daniel on
Picture
Remote Image
Thomas Frank makes baffling decision as unlikely Tottenham duo handed starts vs Burnley - tottenhamhotspurnews.com
Description

Thomas Frank has already come under fire following Tottenham’s lineup to face Burnley at home.

Fans were patiently waiting in the wings to see what Frank had in store for Tottenham’s confrontation against Burnley in the Premier League.

The Dane has had an impressive start to life in North London. Spectators were stunned when Spurs gave up a two-goal lead to PSG in the UEFA Super Cup final.

However, Frank’s side’s performance before the 85th minute boosted morale for the season ahead. As such, Spurs supporters have been excited for the opening game at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

But most could now be heading into the clash with a sense of dread.

MORE SPURS STORIES

Lucas Bergvall and Archie Gray start for Tottenham

Frank was always expected to make a tactical change to give Tottenham a better chance of dominating against Burnley.

However, it was always assumed that Dominic Solanke would take the place of Richarlison. The Englishman had 12 goal contributions in the Premier League last season, and it was hoped he’d give the Lilywhites a similar boost on Saturday.

Ricarlison is now set to start for Spurs. But he is not the only surprise of the afternoon.

In the official lineup shared on Tottenham’s social media sites, Archie Gray and Lucas Bergvall start as Frank’s midfield pivot. The decision sees both Joao Palhinha and Rodrigo Bentancur benched after starting against PSG in the final.

This no doubt comes as a huge shock for fans who were convinced that Frank had decided on his main midfield layout. While fatigue could be behind the Dane’s change, Spurs supporters will feel a little more uncertain heading into the match.

How will Begvall and Gray perform together?

Last season in the Premier League, Bergvall and Gray started 8 matches together under Ange Postecoglou.

However, it was only during Spurs’ 5-1 defeat to Liverpool that both were present in the midfield. Gray was used as a full-back and at times centre-back in their other performances together.

As a result, it is difficult to predict how they will perform together. However, both players have qualities that complement each other well. The defensive prowess displayed by Gray could balance out the more attacking instincts of Bergvall.

Either way, Tottenham fans should expect to see this pairing more often this season.

Savinho appears to contradict Pep Guardiola amid growing Tottenham transfer talk

Submitted by daniel on
Picture
Remote Image
Savinho appears to contradict Pep Guardiola amid growing Tottenham transfer talk - tottenhamhotspurnews.com
Description

Tottenham are still looking to make some additions to their squad before the transfer window closes.

Brazilian winger Savinho is one player believed to be on Thomas Frank’s transfer wishlist.

It has been reported that Savinho has grown frustrated with his lack of opportunities at Manchester City, and Spurs may be willing to offer him a lifeline.

Savinho only signed for Manchester City last summer, but a social media update suggests a potential rift between him and Pep Guardiola.

Savinho social media post suggests all is not well as Manchester City

Guardiola confirmed this week that Savinho would not be fit to play in the Citizens’ opening league game against Wolves on Saturday.

MORE SPURS STORIES

The former Troyes man picked up a knock in a pre-season friendly against Palermo, and Guardiola suggested that would keep him out for a few weeks.

However, he uploaded a post to his Instagram story on Saturday, which suggested he’s fit and raring to go.

The picture shows Savinho taking a selfie while posing in a gym, and it’s accompanied by a smiley face emoji.

Guardiola has previously said that he hoped Savinho would remain at the club.

Flair players should be priority for Thomas Frank

Tottenham haven’t had the transfer window that some might have expected.

Many fans were expecting a huge spending spree after Spurs qualified for the Champions League, but only a handful of new signings have been made.

There’s only a couple of weeks remaining of the transfer window being open, and flair players will surely be the priority now.

Mohammed Kudus has signed from West Ham, but Tottenham have lost James Maddison to a long-term injury. Son Heung-min has been sold, while Kulusevski is also injured.

The signing of Savinho would provide some much-needed depth to Spurs’ attack. He contributed ten assists for City last season, as well as scoring twice.

Tottenham are pursuing Eberechi Eze as well. If Thomas Frank is able to sign both of these stars, he would be spoilt for choice when it comes to creative options.

Tottenham’s chances rated in 2025/26 rated after impressive performance against PSG

Submitted by daniel on
Picture
Remote Image
Tottenham’s chances rated in 2025/26 rated after impressive performance against PSG - tottenhamhotspurnews.com
Description

Thomas Frank has huge expectations to meet as Tottenham head into the 2025/26 Premier League season.

Ange Postecoglou won Tottenham the UEFA Europa League and a trophy for the first time in 17 years.

But Spurs went on to dismiss Postecoglou after he finished 17th in the Premier League. His 22 defeats broke records for being the most without relegation.

Tottenham appointed Frank as manager to improve their league record. As a result, the expectations for the Dane were set before he set foot in North London.

However, those expectations have only risen since he got down to business.

MORE SPURS STORIES

This article includes exclusive comments from Lilywhite Rose owner John Wenham.

Tottenham expected to finish top five in the Premier League

Tottenham take on Burnley in their opening game of the Premier League season on Saturday, 16 August.

The game will be the first time that Frank’s team are back in action since PSG defeated Spurs in the UEFA Super Cup final.

There should be a couple of rotations ahead of the game, with Dominic Solanke predicted to start over Richarlison.

But whatever lineup takes to the pitch, fans will be expecting an improved performance.

The full potential of this Tottenham side has already been displayed during pre-season. Defensively, the Lilywhites look almost unrecognisable.

As a result, Lilywhite Rose owner John Wenham – speaking exclusively to Tottenham News – has made a bold prediction on where Spurs will end the season.

“I think the performance against PSG lifted expectations for the season,” Wenham said.

“In terms of people previously maybe saying Tottenham are going to finish in an eighth, ninth or tenth. I don’t mean in terms of Tottenham fans who have watched this team throughout preseason and the evolution. But pundits who watch multiple clubs, or don’t in some cases.

“But I think now we’re looking at a minimum of top five for Tottenham this season. and an advancement out of the initial UEFA Champions League group stage.”

Manchester City could be the beginning of the end for Tottenham

While Tottenham are expected to come out on top against Burnley, there are concerns about what is still to come.

The Lilywhites face Manchester City at the Etihad next, with games against Bournemouth, West Ham and Brighton to follow. This string of games will be a huge test and will impact where they finish in the league.

Spurs folding against Man City could throw them off their game for the next couple of matches. All three games are ones Spurs would have preferred to play a little deeper into the season.

As a result, the game against City could be a decisive indicator of how the season will pan out for Frank’s side.