A rise of the new Tottenham

After a strange season in which they won the Europa League but finished in last place among the teams that secured survival in the Premier League, Tottenham parted ways with coach Ange Postecoglou and captain Son Heung-min. The South Korean international’s departure was inevitable after 10 years together; he decided to end his career playing in the United States, and that was that. However, the change of coach displeased some fans and players. Just two weeks after ending a 17-year wait for any kind of trophy, Daniel Levy decided to sack Postecoglou and pay 12 million euros for the arrival of Thomas Frank from Brentford. It was the fifth-highest compensation in football history for a coach — an introduction to a lavish transfer window.

PSG came from behind to win the Super Cup on penalties

So far this July, the London club has spent 145 million euros on strengthening the squad. From Bayern came Mathys Tel and João Palhinha, from Lens Kevin Danso, from Kawasaki Frontale Kota Takai, and young Luka Vušković from Hajduk Split. The biggest investment was Mohammed Kudus from West Ham — almost 64 million euros. It seems, however, that the Spurs have not had their last word. Son’s departure to Los Angeles brought them 22 million euros, and in addition to the cash, the farewell to the captain is expected to be softened by at least one more big signing. Manchester City’s Savinho is mentioned as the first choice, and after James Maddison’s injury in a friendly against Newcastle, it is quite possible that the new coach will ask for another creative midfielder. In any case, Levy has announced that another 100 million euros is ready for strengthening the team.

Classy Enrique: ‘We didn’t deserve to win’

Thomas Frank spoke about potential transfers after the European Super Cup defeat to Paris Saint-Germain.

“I would like us to strengthen, no doubt about it. We’ll work hard to make that happen, but overall I’m satisfied with the squad I have at my disposal, even though I’d like to bring in someone else before the end of the transfer window” the Dane said honestly.

All things considered, it is clear that Tottenham will strengthen in the coming days, and after the performance the London club’s players showed against PSG in Udine — despite squandering a 2–0 lead and losing on penalties — Frank’s team could be a pleasant surprise in the Premier League next season. The Spurs showed against the currently most powerful team in Europe that they have something to offer. The Dane prepared the match very well, and with the team’s high defensive line, he confused Luis Enrique. As time went on, PSG gradually found their rhythm, reducing the deficit in the 85th minute and then avoiding defeat with a stoppage-time equalizer.

“We played against a great team, maybe the best in the world at the moment. In one match, we showed that we can play against anyone. I have no doubt about that, and it’s a positive takeaway from this match, even though the late goals spoiled our momentum. Penalties are then a matter of luck. The important thing is that we showed we can be tactical and pragmatic. We have many reasons to be pleased,” Frank said after the match. The missed opportunity to win the UEFA Super Cup will not be a cause for long mourning. Already against newly-promoted Burnley on Saturday (17:00), Tottenham’s fans could see their spirits lifted — as well as some new signings before the transfer window closes.