Tottenham Hotspur’s journey through the UEFA Europa League 2024/2025 has been shaped by a significant tactical transformation under new head coach Ange Postecoglou. With the team now in the quarter-finals and eyeing a deep run, it’s worth exploring how this tactical shift has helped turn Spurs into one of the most dangerous teams in the competition.
At the core of Tottenham’s improvement has been their transition from reactive to proactive football. Postecoglou has implemented a high-pressing system designed to disrupt opponents early and regain possession in advanced areas. This shift in mentality has allowed Spurs to dictate the pace of matches and keep opposing teams under constant pressure.
The formation typically used is a fluid 4-3-3, with the wide forwards playing a crucial role in stretching defenses and creating space for midfield runners. James Maddison, in particular, has thrived in this setup, acting as the creative engine who links play and sets the tempo. His ability to operate between the lines has made Tottenham’s attack more unpredictable and effective.
Defensively, Spurs have tightened up considerably. Rather than relying on deep blocks, they now press high up the pitch and look to compress space in the midfield. This has helped reduce the number of shots they face and allowed them to recover possession quickly when they lose the ball. Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven have formed a solid partnership at the back, combining physicality with intelligent positioning.
Wing-backs have also become a central element of Tottenham’s tactics. Pedro Porro and Destiny Udogie frequently push high and wide, acting almost as wingers when in possession. This gives Spurs width in attack while also allowing their wingers, such as Son Heung-min and Dejan Kulusevski, to cut inside and pose a threat centrally.
Set-pieces have been another area of improvement. Tottenham has shown better organization and intent during corners and free kicks, both defensively and offensively. This new focus has yielded several goals from dead-ball situations, adding another weapon to their arsenal.
The team’s fitness levels and game management have also improved. With a more intense style of play, conditioning has been critical. Postecoglou has ensured that his squad is well-prepared physically and mentally for the demands of both domestic and European competitions.
This tactical evolution has paid dividends in the Europa League. Tottenham has scored freely, controlled possession, and managed games more effectively than in previous seasons. Their group-stage performances laid the foundation, and their knockout round success has been built on consistent execution of their game plan.
As they face Eintracht Frankfurt in the quarter-finals, Spurs will rely on this tactical identity to navigate what promises to be a challenging tie. Frankfurt is known for its own aggressive style, but Tottenham’s control of space and tempo could give them the edge.
The journey is far from over, but one thing is clear: Tottenham Hotspur’s tactical growth under Ange Postecoglou has made them one of the most exciting and complete teams in the UEFA Europa League 2024/2025. If they continue on this trajectory, they could very well be lifting the trophy come the end of the season.
