If last summer was about turning the page, this summer is all about writing the next chapter. The stage is set, the tone is established, and the main characters are familiar, but now comes the challenge of building on the story. The 2023/24 season was a mix of highs and lows, largely serving as an introduction: moving on from Harry Kane, embracing a new style of play, and integrating fresh faces into the starting XI. As we head into the 2024/25 season, expectations are clearer, even if not every plot twist has been revealed.
Ange Postecoglou quickly won over both his players and the supporters last season, making Tottenham Hotspur undoubtedly his team now. While a Premier League title isn’t on the cards, progress is a must, and a top-four battle is certainly within reach as the new season kicks off. Growth isn’t always straightforward, and while a massive leap up the table might be unlikely, there’s potential for this club to make some serious waves. Either way, it all begins on Monday night in Leicester.
Leicester City (previous: EFL Championship 1st) vs. Tottenham Hotspur (previous: 5th)
- Date: Monday, August 19
- Time: 3:00 pm ET, 8:00 pm UK
- Location: King Power Stadium, Leicester
- TV: USA Network (USA), Sky Sports Main Event (UK)
Leicester City spent its year away from the Premier League wisely, winning the Championship, much like during their last stint in the second division. However, the Foxes face a tough battle to stay afloat this season, especially with the loss of manager Enzo Maresca to Chelsea, the sale of Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, and only modest signings. It’s hard to see this season going smoothly for them.
There’s been no shortage of thrilling encounters between these two clubs in recent years, and the last two matches were no exception. Heung-Min Son’s hat trick off the bench in a 6-2 victory in September 2022 was a highlight, even if it didn’t lead to consistent success. Meanwhile, a 4-1 defeat in the reverse fixture, which saw Tottenham fall to a team destined for relegation, perfectly encapsulated the Antonio Conte saga… but at least James Maddison managed to score in both games?
Starting from the Bottom
Steve Cooper arrives at Leicester with a mountain of work ahead of him. Realistically, there’s only so much that can be done with a squad lacking top-tier quality, which means tactics will be crucial. Expect Leicester to sit deep and make life difficult for Spurs’ attack. Low blocks have been a challenge for Tottenham, and this is likely Leicester’s best shot at getting a result.
When Leicester does manage to defend successfully, their plan will be to counterattack. The club’s biggest signing, Bobby De Cordova-Reid, who netted six goals for Fulham last season, along with Abdul Fatawu, who has joined Leicester permanently after a loan spell, will be tasked with leading the attack. Tottenham’s defense had its flaws last season, but expect a more disciplined approach to kick off the new campaign.
Going Madd
The addition of Dominic Solanke gives Postecoglou solid depth across the front three, but questions remain regarding the No. 10 position. Much of the responsibility falls on James Maddison, who struggled to replicate his early-season form after injury setbacks. Fittingly, the new season starts at his old stomping ground, and his performance out of the gate will be a key indicator of Tottenham’s prospects this season.
Progression has historically been a challenge for Spurs, and they led the league in turnovers during build-ups last season. While this doesn’t all rest on Maddison’s shoulders, he is the linchpin in the center of the attack, and Spurs’ success will largely depend on him. Other options exist (like Dejan Kulusevski playing centrally or Lucas Bergvall earning a spot), but the ideal scenario is for Maddison to rediscover his form. And there’s no better place to do that than in Matchweek 1 at Leicester.
