Tottenham Hotspur’s odds of winning the Premier League are currently at 55/1, which strongly suggests that this is something that is unlikely to happen. Last season’s performance from the North London side was one inspired by Jekyll & Hyde, as we lost 22 domestic games, setting a new record in the Premier League for the number of games lost, yet avoiding relegation! Yet at the same time, the first piece of silverware in 17 years was secured, in the Europa League.
For the forthcoming 2025/26 season, the in-play odds in football will make for fascinating analysis, as fans look to navigate their way between ambition and reality once again. The only question is, Thomas Frank can mount a somewhat less nerve-jangling campaign, as the cumulative losses resulted in us finishing 17th and nearly getting relegated.
The glaring issue in N17 is recruitment, and once again, all eyes are on the board to add sufficient weight to a starting XI that genuinely struggled last time out. Yes, there were injuries, but football is a contact sport, and one can quite reasonably expect more of the same. The season starts in a matter of weeks, and just one senior player has been signed up. Mohammed Kudus knows the division and will be keen to make his mark, but where are the rest?
Heung-min Son has effectively retired. At the age of 33, he’s headed off to reunite with Hugo Lloris at LAFC in the MLS. James Maddison has suffered a wince-inducing ACL injury and will most likely miss the entire season. Dejan Kulusevski is not much better, and Thomas Frank said on July 19th:
‘I don’t like to put a timeline on it. Put it this way, he’s not ready for the first game of the season.’
Another concern is Destiny Udogie, who was held back from participating in the preseason tour because of a knee injury sustained while warming up at Luton Town. The only vague glimmer of hope comes from Dominic Solanke, who is expected back in due course.
The real objective is surely to achieve a meaningful blend of youth and experience that can produce sustainable football. Last season was largely a washout due to incredibly naive coaching, but even with a much more sane approach from Frank, Tottenham needs fresh meat.
Many names have been speculated, but with just weeks to run before the new season kicks off, it is direct action that is required.
