Tottenham Hotspur are leading the Premier League in possession this season, yet they are struggling to create clear goal-scoring opportunities. Under Ange Postecoglou’s management, while there have been several positives, the team has faced recurring defensive issues and a lack of offensive effectiveness.
One significant problem is their vulnerability during defensive set-pieces, as highlighted in their recent defeat against Arsenal in the north London derby. Additionally, their high defensive line, described as “suicidal” by some observers, has led to opponents exploiting space behind the defenders, with Micky van de Ven’s recovery runs occasionally saving them from further goals. This strategy was evident in their previous match against Newcastle, where similar tactics allowed the Magpies to score the decisive goal.
From a more positive perspective, one could argue that Tottenham has improved on their defensive woes compared to last season, where they conceded multiple goals from set pieces. However, they still need to strengthen this aspect of their game.
On the offensive side, the team is having difficulty converting their substantial possession into goals. Tottenham averages 67.8% possession in the Premier League, significantly higher than second-placed Manchester City at 62.1%. Their field tilt, which measures territorial dominance, is also the highest in the league at 78.4%. Despite dominating possession, Tottenham has netted only six goals in four matches, and the majority of those came against Everton, who were off form.
Their struggles to convert possession into meaningful chances are evident in the numbers. Spurs average only 0.018 expected goals for every entry into the attacking third, with only promoted teams and Everton posting lower figures in that category. While they spend considerable time in the final third, their efficiency has declined, generating just 0.028 xG per entry into the penalty area and averaging 0.32 shots per penalty-area entry — the lowest in the league.
Against Arsenal, Tottenham managed 21 dribbles compared to Arsenal’s 20, despite holding 63.7% possession. Their attacking players attempted only 13 dribbles combined, showing a lack of ambition to take risks during crucial moments.
While James Maddison has the potential to break down defenses, his form has dipped since suffering an ankle injury last November. However, the solutions to Tottenham’s struggles cannot rest on the shoulders of a single player. Postecoglou needs to instill confidence in his squad to take more risks and exploit the spaces opponents give them. Without creating meaningful chances, their patience with possession might start to diminish.