When a new manager arrives at a club, the first thing that people tend to look for is whether there are any personnel or tactical changes. What will be their new imprint on the side, and how will they stamp their own authority on matters?
Since Jose Mourinho was appointed as Tottenham’s permanent successor to Mauricio Pochettino, the real difference has been with the mentality, rather than anything major with his formation or style of play. The Lilywhites’ hard-fought win at Wolves represented that perfectly. But whilst it has all been plain sailing for the north London side so far – barring that defeat to Manchester United of course – the Spurs boss may feel inclined to change things up heading into the busy Christmas period.
It could be Mourinho’s opportunity to really take his team into a new era, and ultimately, it could be a move that has the most benefit on the pitch too. Whilst Pochettino flirted with the formation in his time at Spurs, he always seemed to favour four-at-the-back. But with the personnel the current Spurs boss has at his disposal, and the form that they are in too, moving to a three-at-the-back could bring rich rewards.
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At its heart, it would allow the club’s incredible quality in the centre-back position to really flourish. Whilst Jan Vertonghen netted the winner against Wolves last Sunday, he was given a tough time by Adama Traore, being dribbled past three times and losing possession on 19 separate occasions.
Moving him into his more natural role could also Ryan Sessegnon to come into the line-up too at left wing-back – the former Fulham man really introducing himself to the Spurs faithful with a goal-scoring display away at Bayern Munich. And as a wing-back, Serge Aurier would have less defensive responsibilities to his name, and could give him the licence to maraud up the right-hand side.
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And whilst Moussa Sissoko could start plenty of games, particularly in the clashes against Spurs’ big-six rivals, summer signing Tanguy Ndombele could come into the team against sides that they need to break down. The three-at-the-back would also allow Son Heung-min and Harry Kane to start up front. In essence, Mourinho would be playing his stars in positions they would be extremely comfortable in and would be able to thrive from. It really does seem like a no-brainer.
Meanwhile, Tottenham fans have lauded this man after his commanding display against Wolves.
