Former Tottenham Hotspur winger David Bentley believes that the “honeymoon period” for manager Ange Postecoglou has come to an end, with the pressure now mounting for him to deliver consistent results.
Bentley, who was once a fan favourite at Spurs, acknowledged the positive impact Postecoglou has made since his arrival, rejuvenating the team’s playing style and energy among fans.
However, he emphasised that the next phase of the Australian’s tenure will be decisive for Tottenham’s progress, as the focus shifts from style to results.
When Postecoglou took over, his appointment was met with enthusiasm, especially after the more defensive approaches of former managers José Mourinho and Antonio Conte.
The shift to a more dynamic, attacking philosophy under Postecoglou has won over fans and pundits alike. However, Bentley warned that results will ultimately determine the manager’s long-term success.
In an interview with Football365, Bentley discussed the challenge ahead for Postecoglou, highlighting the fierce competition for a top-four Premier League finish.
With Manchester City, Arsenal, and Liverpool expected to dominate the top spots, Bentley believes Tottenham will have to battle Chelsea and Manchester United for the remaining Champions League place.
He pointed out that even though Chelsea and United have had rocky starts, their squads are strong enough to challenge Spurs.
Bentley explained:
“You are going to find yourself under pressure at a club like Tottenham if you are losing matches.
“Ange was welcomed into the football club because what came before him with Mourinho and Conte was not what the fans wanted to see. There was negativity both with the style of football and also among the fans in general, and I think Ange has repaired those two elements.
“After that, it all comes down to results, and if they are going against you, the pressure will not be long in coming your way.”
He further added that despite Postecoglou’s early success, including multiple Manager of the Month awards, Spurs now face the challenge of sustaining that momentum.
Bentley pointed out that Spurs must target a top-four finish and finally break their trophy drought, as fans grow impatient:
“The honeymoon period of last season is over now, so they have to try and get to the next level. That means finishing in the top four and trying to win a trophy because, as we know, Tottenham haven’t won anything for a long time, and their fans are fed up hearing about it.”
Postecoglou’s first season in charge was marked by an impressive start, but narrowly missing out on Champions League qualification by just two points added pressure.
As Spurs compete in both the Premier League and Europa League this season, the ability to maintain success will be critical to determining Postecoglou’s legacy at the club.
