Since José Mourinho was appointed on the 20th of November 2019, the North London side have had mixed success in the Premier League, with six wins, two draws, and four defeats. Tottenham Hotspur ends January six points off a top-four spot, but more importantly for their season, they will be without Harry Kane until April. This brings Mourinho his biggest test so far: he will have to find a way to improve his side’s season without their talisman leading the line.
This tactical analysis/scout report will look at Mourinhos tactics and how he can best utilise what players he has at the club to cope with the absence of Harry Kane. The analysis will look at how Mourinho can change the way Tottenham plays with counter-attacks, the types of crosses, and numbers in the box. Tottenham does have the personnel to manage it all depends on how well they can adapt.
Change is needed
Since Kane’s injury, Tottenham Hotspur have won just one game in the Premier League, and this was a tight 2-1 win against the bottom side in Norwich City. Out of the six games without Kane, Spurs have only scored six goals, only two of which have been in the Premier League. This has been a problem throughout the year as Tottenham’s expected goals in the Premier League has averaged at 1.41. This is lower than their opponents average of 1.47. This difference is important as it shows Tottenham’s opponents are more likely to outscore Spurs.
This chart shows the areas Tottenham have struggled in this season.
Counter-attacks
Part of Mourinho’s style in the past has been for his teams to sit deep and absorb pressure. This way of playing has brought him success as his teams have bought into the defensive system. They have also had the quality to then take the chances they create. Therefore, without Kane and a natural replacement, Spurs need to change their approach.
One way Tottenham could do this is by becoming a counter-attacking team. With Son Heung-min and Lucas Moura, they have two players who are confident running with the ball at pace. It is a style that may fit Spurs, as throughout the season 37.63% of counter-attacks have resulted in a shot on goal. This is significantly higher than their opponent’s counter-attacks against Spurs of 27.16%.
There have bee
