Pochettino and his coaching staff could be set for a hostile reception on their return to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, four years on from their sacking by Spurs.

Chelsea have struggled to pick up wins so far this season and Tottenham could pile on the misery for their former boss by moving 17 points clear of the Blues with a win on Monday.

LONDON, ENGLAND – JULY 07: Chelsea Head Coach Mauricio Pochettino poses for the photographer after holding a Press Conference at Stamford Bridge on July 07, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images)

Jesus Perez may not make Tottenham return

It turns out that Pochettino might also have to be without his trusted lieutenant as Perez could be suspended for the clash.

Pochettino’s number two was sent off for entering Brentford’s technical area to confront one of Thomas Frank’s assistants in the 88th minute of Chelsea’s 2-0 loss on Saturday.

As a result, he has been charged with misconduct by the FA, with the offence being deemed an automatic red card according to the new Premier League rules.

Perez has until Thursday to respond to the charge, meaning that he will be in the dugout for the Carabao Cup clash against Blackburn Rovers this evening but could miss out on the trip to Spurs.

Spurs Web Opinion

I can understand why some fans feel betrayed by Pochettino’s decision to join Chelsea but I personally feel that it would be harsh to hold that against him, given that he was desperate to return to Spurs in the summer but the club showed no interest in a reunion.

I personally think that the Argentine deserves a positive reception but I have no doubt that he will be jeered loudly by the home support. If Chelsea get soundly beaten, the away dugout would be a lonely place for Pochettino, particularly without Jesus by his side.

The post Report: Pochettino faces potential Jesus Perez blow ahead of Spurs return appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

It was reported by Sky Sports on transfer deadline day in the summer that Tottenham were ‘exploring a possible late deal’ for Chalobah and that they had made ‘initial contact’ with Chelsea over a potential deal for the 24-year-old.

However, the move did not materialise at the time and it was subsequently reported by Football London last month that Spurs could reignite their interest in the English centre-back in January.

Last week, 90min claimed that Chalobah himself is ‘ready to leave’ Chelsea when the transfer window opens and has had conversations with Pochettino about his future.

LONDON, ENGLAND – JULY 07: Chelsea Head Coach Mauricio Pochettino during a Press Conference at Stamford Bridge on July 07, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images)

Chelsea have made a decision on Trevoh Chalobah

The Mirror have now asserted that Chelsea owner Todd Boehly has given Pochettino total transfer control ahead of January and that the Argentine has decided that Chalobah is not part of his plans.

It is alleged that the expectation at the West London Club and among the player’s entourage is that they would part ways at the end of this year.

The report adds that Bayern Munich showed an interest in the 24-year-old in the summer and they are expected to return again in January, with Thomas Tuchel being a fan of the Chelsea academy graduate.

Spurs Web Opinion

There is no doubt that Tottenham will be in the market for a centre-back (potentially even two if Dier leaves) in January and Chalobah seems to tick several boxes, given his tactical profile, age, and homegrown status. So, I would not be surprised if Spurs explored a deal for the 24-year-old.

The post Report: Pochettino has now decided to move on alleged Spurs target  appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

Spurs had fallen just short of the Premier League title in the 2016-17 season for the second time in a row, finishing the campaign with a club-record tally of 86 points. Unfortunately, the Lilywhites have never quite managed to get back to those heights.

LONDON, ENGLAND – JULY 07: Chelsea Head Coach Mauricio Pochettino poses for the photographer after holding a Press Conference at Stamford Bridge on July 07, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images)

Pochettino regrets not getting his Spurs revamp

While Pochettino did take Tottenham to a Champions League final in 2019, the likes of Manchester City and Liverpool swiftly pulled away from Spurs in the league, with the club not being able to claw back the gap.

The Independent have revealed that sources close to Pochettino state that the current Chelsea boss still looks at his time at Tottenham and wonders ‘what if’.

It is alleged that the Argentine has particular regrets over the summer window of 2017 and feels that was time for the club to undergo a massive squad revamp.

Spurs Web Opinion

During the turbulent last three years, Spurs fans have often looked back on the Pochettino era to assess what went wrong as we were certainly on the cusp of achieving something special. However, fans have now finally moved on and are excited about what the Postecoglou era could bring.

The post Report: Mauricio Pochettino still has one big Tottenham Hotspur regret  appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

The book written by Spanish journalist Guillem Balague in 2017 offers an inside account of Pochettino’s transformation of Tottenham.

The 51-year-old took over at the North London club on the back of a tumultuous couple of years and he did not have the easiest of first seasons at White Hart Lane, falling out with several senior players and integrating some youngsters into the squad.

Those decisions paid off as Tottenham went on to challenge for the Premier League title during Pochettino’s second and third seasons at the club.

A couple of years after the book was published, Pochettino almost took Spurs to European glory, with the club being beaten in the Champions League final by Liverpool in 2019.

LONDON, ENGLAND – JULY 07: Chelsea Head Coach Mauricio Pochettino poses for the photographer after holding a Press Conference at Stamford Bridge on July 07, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images)

Pochettino gives Spurs book to Mykhailo Mudryk

The former Spurs manager will be hoping that his fortunes at Chelsea also turn around in similar fashion after a difficult start to life at Stamford Bridge.

Mudryk has now thanked Pochettino on Instagram stories for gifting him a copy of ‘Brave New World’

Pochettino’s gift to Mudryk: his book ‘Brave new world — inside Pochettino’s Spurs”, from 2017. pic.twitter.com/I2Ka52khK3

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 4, 2023

Spurs Web Opinion

I am not so sure that Mudryk’s decision to share this on social media will go down particularly well with Chelsea’s supporters, given their hatred of all things Tottenham.

The post Chelsea star reveals that Pochettino recently gave him a Tottenham gift appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

Fast-forward a generation and you find supporters discussing our side of the early 80s, the FA Cup wins of 1980/81 and 1981/82, with the culmination of those ‘glory, glory’ days being that famous 1984 UEFA Cup win, and those fans will name Ossie Ardiles, Ricky Villa, Tony Parks and Steve Perryman among their all-time greats.

The younger generation have not been as lucky. Just one League Cup in a barren run of one trophy in 32 years, and counting. Though, in more recent years, they have been blessed to watch the likes of Harry Kane, Gareth Bale, Heung-min Son, Jermain Defoe and Dele Alli from the views provided by both editions of the Park Lane, Shelf Side or the Paxton Road.

This current side, led by Ange Postecoglou, has the potential to be an all-time favourite. Maybe it’s because this young, exciting team, playing front-foot football and controlling games, is a far cry from the dull, uninspiring mess that was served up by Jose Mourinho, Nuno Espirito Santo and Antonio Conte over the past few years.

Maybe it’s because, inspired by ‘Ange-ball’, the new stadium has seen matchday atmosphere on a consistent basis unlike ever before. Maybe it’s because it’s so refreshing to listen to Ange’s press conferences which, unlike his predecessors, are not repetitive and uninteresting.

But where does it rank among Tottenham’s greatest sides of the Premier League era?

(Photo By Eóin Noonan/Sportsfile via Getty Images)

2005/06 – Manager: Martin Jol

League Position: 5^th

Standout players: Robbie Keane, Jermain Defoe, Ledley King, Edgar Davids, Michael Dawson, Michael Carrick

 On paper, you may question why this team have been included – no top 4, disappointing early cup exits, that final day debacle…

Forget about lasagne for a minute. The team of 2005/06 was a breath of fresh air for Spurs fans. The previous season was a dull 9^th, and it could easily have been worse had Jacques Santini been allowed to stay.

Exciting players were brought in (what was a Champions League winner like Edgar Davids doing at a team who had finished 9^th?), Martin Jol inspired Robbie Keane and Jermain Defoe to score 25 goals between them in the league, and the emergence of Michael Carrick in midfield earned him a big move to Manchester United in the summer.

Final day fiasco aside, the points haul of 65 was enough to secure Spurs’ highest-ever Premier League finish of 5^th, and subsequent European qualification for the first time since an ill-fated 1999/00 UEFA Cup campaign.

Similarities can be drawn between this side and the current side. No, the team of 2005/06 weren’t managed by a charismatic Aussie, but what they did have was a rock-solid defensive pairing of Ledley King and Michael Dawson.

This is actually similar to the current pairing of Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero – the former already drawing comparisons with the great Ledley – and a team spirit to rival that of Ange’s side, who, to an outsider, seem more ‘together’ than any Spurs side has been for years.

Are they better than what we currently have? In short, no. This current team is packed to the brim with world-class players and a top, emerging manager – the team of 2005/06 were running on, mostly, solid players who could do a job in the Premier League – though that work ethic and team ethos was on another level to teams from the past.

Stephen Pond/Getty Images

 2009/10 – Manager: Harry Redknapp

League position: 4^th

Standout players: Aaron Lennon, Jermain Defoe, Luka Modric, Michael Dawson, Peter Crouch

The first Spurs side that fans born in the late 1990s to early 2000s were able to truly fall in love with.

On paper, with a solid mid-table manager like Harry Redknapp, and an uninspiring best XI, a few gems aside, it looked like a season of challenging for Europa League qualification for Spurs.

But we went one better.

It may be to do with the fact that we were up against Manchester City’s newly-found riches in the battle for 4^th place, but it seemed like most of the league were willing us over the line to Champions League qualification and our highest-ever Premier League position.

Redknapp’s second-to-none man management, memorable victories over Arsenal and Chelsea, and of course Peter Crouch’s winner at the Etihad, it was a season to remember.

A trip to Wembley was even on the cards for the FA Cup semi-final, but a dismal display against lowly Portsmouth ensured we would have to wait to lift that famous old trophy again.

Are they better than what we currently have? No. However, it could be argued that this Spurs team, in their prime, would give our current team a good game. A certain Gareth Bale was on the bench for most of the season…

FRANCK FIFE / AFP) (Photo by FRANCK FIFE/AFP via Getty Images

2016/17 – Manager: Mauricio Pochettino

League position: 2^nd

Standout players: Harry Kane, Dele Alli, Heung-min Son, Hugo Lloris, Christian Eriksen, Toby Alderweireld, Jan Vertonghen, Moussa Dembele

 After a few years of ‘nearlys’, Europa League football and Tim Sherwood, Mauricio Pochettino arrived in the summer of 2014 and set about curating a squad that, at its peak, would go on to finish 2^nd in the league, with a home-grown superstar from the academy leading the line. It wasn’t bad, was it?

Time and time again on social media we are reminded of this team’s greatness – 86 points would have been enough to win the league in some seasons – and graphics of the strongest lineup from this season, consisting of Lloris, Walker, Alderweireld, Vertonghen, Rose, Dembele, Wanyama, Eriksen, Dele, Son and Kane.

It was a fitting farewell to the old White Hart Lane, and a true testament to the ethos that Poch brought to the club, that we would go unbeaten all season in N17 – we would also reach another FA Cup semi-final but eventually lose out to Chelsea.

On its day, the team just seemed invincible – another North London Derby victory, a memorable win under the lights against a Chelsea side which were the only team in the country better than us at the time, a win over Manchester United in the final game at the Lane… Pochettino built arguably our greatest team of the Premier League era.

Are they better than what we currently have? Yes – but not much better. This current team still has so much to prove, and with a captain who starred in the great 2016/17 side, Heung-min Son, the sky is the limit for Postecoglou’s boys.

The post Opinion: Where this Spurs side ranks among our greatest of the Premier League era appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

Mauricio Pochettino became a Tottenham icon during his stint in charge between 2014 and 2019. The Argentinian oversaw the most successful period in recent history for Spurs, guiding the team to a Champions League final and second place in the Premier League.

Though he was unable to secure any silverware for Spurs, Pochettino had the adoration of the supporters and the players. This is largely down to the fact that his team played attractive football, and the coach endeared himself to the fan base very quickly.

Pochettino has since taken over at Chelsea, and may well have lost some of that affection from the Spurs fans after signing up with a fierce rival.

Despite spending big in the summer, it has not been an impressive start for Pochettino in West London. His Chelsea side are languishing in 14th place in the league after six games, with just one win and two draws.

LONDON, ENGLAND – JULY 07: Chelsea Head Coach Mauricio Pochettino poses for the photographer after holding a Press Conference at Stamford Bridge on July 07, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images)

Pochettino found it more difficult at Spurs

He may be feeling the pressure already at Chelsea, but Pochettino has insisted this job is not as difficult as the Tottenham job was.

Fabrizio Romano shared the 51-year-old’s comments regarding the Chelsea job: “It’s less hard than it was at Southampton and Tottenham. Trust me, believe me.”

And, on the solution to Chelsea’s problems, Pochettino added: “The only thing we are missing is to score goals.”

Spurs Web Opinion

I’ve been quite shocked by just how poor Chelsea have started the season, and I’m sure they will turn it around. The situation there is the perfect example of the idea that throwing money at a problem is not guaranteed to fix it, but if Pochettino is given time it should work out.

Regarding his comments, I would probably agree that the Chelsea job should be pretty straightforward, given the incredible resources he has been afforded. He got nothing like that at Southampton or Spurs, which made things far more challenging.

The post ‘Trust me’ – Pochettino makes bold claim about his time as Spurs manager appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

Gallagher has started every single game for Chelsea this season, even captaining the Blues in their Carabao Cup second-round tie against Wimbledon.

However, questions continue to be raised about the 23-year-old’s future at Stamford Bridge, with The Athletic reporting two weeks ago that the youngster is ‘more valued for his potential sale price than his on-pitch contributions’ by the West London club’s hierarchy.

CHAPEL HILL, NORTH CAROLINA – JULY 19: Conor Gallagher of Chelsea applauds the fans after the Pre-Season Friendly match between Chelsea FC and Wrexham at Kenan Stadium on July 19, 2023 in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. (Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images)

Last week, Football Insider described Spurs as ‘long-term admirers’ of Gallagher and claimed that the Lilywhites are considering reigniting their pursuit of the player in January after seeing their interest knocked back on summer transfer deadline day.

The outlet added that they have been informed by a ‘well-placed source’ that Chelsea could decide to offload their academy graduate due to their current financial position.

Conor Gallagher is happy at Chelsea under Pochettino

However, the England international has now suggested that Pochettino sees him as part of his plans.

Gallagher said (via Football.London): “If you had said to me last season that there’s going to be a couple of games where you lead the team out, I still would have laughed at you then as well. That shows the gaffer’s belief in me right now.

“And ever since I first met him, to be honest, I think a lot of the lads will say the same. He’s very honest and open with the players, and I’ve had good chats with him, and I think he appreciates what I can do on the pitch and believes in me.

“So I’m really grateful for that, and hopefully I can continue to help him and the team get better results.”

Spurs Web Opinion

It is clear that Pochettino rates Gallagher highly but what is evident is that the Argentine is not calling all the shots at Stamford Bridge. It is possible that Chelsea’s transfer committee will overrule him and decide to sell the midfielder if they receive a decent offer in January.

The post Conor Gallagher opens up on Pochettino relationship amid Tottenham links appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

Pochettino arrived at Spurs at a time when the club had struggled to live up to expectations over the previous couple of years under Andre Villas-Boas and Tim Sherwood.

LONDON, ENGLAND – JULY 07: Chelsea Head Coach Mauricio Pochettino poses for the photographer after holding a Press Conference at Stamford Bridge on July 07, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images)

While the Argentine’s first season at White Hart Lane was nothing to write home about, the Lilywhites were a transformed outfit in his second and third seasons in charge, challenging for the Premier League title in both campaigns but eventually falling short to Leicester City and Chelsea respectively.

A couple of years later, the 51-year-old almost took Tottenham to European glory, with the side once again falling short at the final hurdle against Liverpool.

Pochettino thinks Spurs had a winning mentality

Pochettino is thus yet to break his trophy duck in English football but the Chelsea boss has insisted that the Spurs side that he built certainly had the mentality of winners.

He told The Sun: “When I was at Tottenham it was a different period, but I think the mentality to win was there. We won. Maybe we didn’t lift a trophy, but we won in many, many ways.”

Spurs Web Opinion

While I certainly think a ‘winning mentality’ counts for a lot at the highest level, I do believe that it is a phrase that is thrown around a lot, often in places where it does not necessarily apply.

The margins between winning and losing can often be very small and are not necessarily explained by a team’s mentality. Anyone who watched Pochettino’s Spurs side play during their pomp would agree that they were mentality monsters.

The post Pochettino claims Spurs ‘won in many ways’ under him despite lack of trophies appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

Zaha has just called time on his second, very lengthy spell with Crystal Palace after spending the last nine years with the Eagles. 

(Photo by Bryn Lennon/Getty Images)

Over the course of his career, the attacker made 458 appearances for Palace, scoring 90 goals and providing 76 assists (Transfermarkt).

Palace fans will be gutted to see their hero move on this summer, but with his contract at an end, the Ivory Coast international decided to leave London, and indeed the Premier League.

Zaha joined Turkish side Galatasaray ahead of the new season, in a move which has raised some eyebrows considering he is thought to have had offers from high-profile clubs in some of Europe’s top leagues. Both Lazio and Marseille were believed to be interested in acquiring his services (90 Min).

Pochettino wanted Wilfried Zaha at Spurs

Towards the end of last season, Tottenham were linked with Zaha (London World). That move didn’t come to fruition of course, and discussions over Zaha’s decision to join Galatasaray have reignited talk surrounding Mauricio Pochettino‘s failed attempts to bring the winger to North London previously.

Journalist Sean Walsh told the Talking Transfers podcast: “I assumed that if he wanted Champions League football he’d have gone to somewhere like Marseille. We reported that they were always looking and hoping that would be the landing spot for him. 

“So were Spurs; there was a long-term interest there and that was largely driven by Pochettino. He loved a touchline winger, he wanted someone who could beat a man, and he was quite frustrated that [Zaha] was someone he never got over the line.”

Spurs Web Opinion

Wilf Zaha would have been an excellent addition to that Pochettino side and it’s tantalising to think what he could have done with that group of players and the style of play Poch used.

The post Pochettino was ‘frustrated’ that he was never able to sign winger for Spurs appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

Gallagher has been deemed ‘surplus to requirements’ at Chelsea, with Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham both thought to be leading the way when it comes to signing the 23-year-old (Evening Standard).

CHAPEL HILL, NORTH CAROLINA – JULY 19: Conor Gallagher of Chelsea applauds the fans after the Pre-Season Friendly match between Chelsea FC and Wrexham at Kenan Stadium on July 19, 2023 in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. (Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images)

It is the Hammers who have made the first move to secure Gallagher’s signature this summer, but their initial offer of £37m plus add-ons was rejected by Chelsea, and it was suggested that could be the end of West Ham’s bidding (Jacob Steinberg).

Just yesterday, fresh details emerged with varying reports on who might actually sign Gallagher.

The Evening Standard claimed West Ham were ‘confident’ they could come to an agreement for the player, while the Telegraph suggested Tottenham now hold the upper hand.

To make matters even more confusing, Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino is quoted as saying Gallagher is in his ‘plans’ which leaves the midfielder’s future all the more unclear.

Race for Gallagher will go down to the wire

We may not have an answer to where Gallagher’s future lies for some time, according to Graeme Bailey, as this could be a transfer that is left until the last minute.

Bailey told the Talking Transfers podcast: “There isn’t much talk of Santos going out. Gallagher is one, I think we will be talking about Gallagher in the final week of August. 

“He is one of those players, if come August 12th, he’s in the starting line-up for Chelsea that will tell us a lot. There are a few of those players around the league who, if they’re not in the team on August 12th, will push to get out.”

Spurs Web Opinion

I think Spurs are in a good position here where we can afford to bide our time and swoop for Gallagher when we are ready.

We don’t need another midfielder as things stand, unless anyone leaves. As long as we are in the loop on Gallagher’s availability, we can move for him when the time is right.

The post Journalist thinks reported Spurs target may not transfer until late in the window appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

Pochettino has inherited a bloated squad at Chelsea, and with the side spending big over the last 12 months there is a need to balance the books.

Just last week, it seemed Gallagher would be one of the players to make way, after it was revealed he had been offered around to other clubs this summer (Evening Standard).

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – JULY 22: Conor Gallagher #23 of Chelsea directs his team during the first half of the pre season friendly match against the Brighton & Hove Albion at Lincoln Financial Field on July 22, 2023 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)

Journalist Jacob Steinberg claimed West Ham had seen an initial offer of £37m plus add-ons rejected by Chelsea and it seemed the Hammers were not going to increase their bid for the 23-year-old.

Just today, we have seen varying reports on the race for Gallagher’s signature. The Evening Standard state West Ham ‘remain confident’ of landing the England international, while the Telegraph puts Tottenham in the driving seat when it comes to signing Gallagher.

Conor Gallagher is in Pochettino’s plans

Now, things have gotten even more confusing as Mauricio Pochettino has stated Gallagher is part of his ‘plans’ at Stamford Bridge.

Pochettino said (via Fabrizio Romano): “Gallagher is in our plans. In football things happen we can’t manage but I am happy with him.”

On the club’s desire to sign more midfielders, Pochettino added: “At least we need one more. We are working on that. Depends what happens in the next few weeks. The club is working on that.”

Pochettino: “Gallagher is in our plans. In football things happen we can't manage but I am happy with him”. #CFC

New midfielders? “At least we need one more. We are working on that. Depends what happens in the next few weeks. The club is working on that”. pic.twitter.com/rGJIKiGUKJ

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 26, 2023

Spurs Web Opinion

We already knew that Pochettino was a fan of Gallagher, but it still seemed likely that the decision to sell the midfielder was out of the manager’s hands.

However, the fact that he is now saying Gallagher is in his plans suggests he intends to work with him in the coming season.

This situation is becoming a real merry-go-round, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see Spurs back out and avoid the drama.

The post Manager claims player is in his plans despite links to Tottenham Hotspur appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

The striker is building new family home in Wentworth, Surrey which only 15 miles from Chelsea’s Cobham training ground where former manager Mauricio Pochettino has recently taken charge which fuelled speculation that the Stamford Bridge outfit had been ‘alerted’ by the news (Telegraph).

Kane is now in the last year of his contract in North London and his future had Tottenham has been the subject of intense speculation for the duration of the summer transfer window to date.

The 29-year-old became Tottenham’s all-time record goalscorer when he surpassed Jimmy Greaves’ record after netting his 267th strike which came with during a win against Manchester City back in February.

(Photo by Craig Mercer/MB Media/Getty Images)

Harry Kane will not join Chelsea if he leaves Tottenham

The report claims that should Kane decide to leave Tottenham, he wants to do so on the best possible terms and is aware of his close relationship with the supporters and the legacy he has built to become a club legend.

As a result, he is prepared to reject any future approach from Chelsea with his heart set on ensuring he wants the best for the club.

It is explained that as things stand, Kane is keeping an open mind on his future. The striker would consider leaving Spurs right now, departing on a free transfer in a year’s time or even signing a new contract.

The England captain will not commit to a new contract at Tottenham when the transfer window remains open and he wants to see if the team makes progress under Ange Posteocglou this season.

Pochettino had refused to rule out a future move for Kane earlier this month, when he told the Daily Mail: “I don’t like to talk about players in another club, but you are talking about one of the greatest, one of the best strikers in the world.

“It’s not fair to talk, it’s not fair to say nothing. People are not stupid, fans are not stupid, they are so clever and they know my relationship with him was always amazing. I saw him when he was young, grow up and achieve all he was achieving and of course we have a great relationship.

“At the moment we are thinking in different ways. We are not thinking about that. Of course working hard to try to provide the squad with good qualities.

“I don’t like to talk about players and, more than that, players who were close to me.”

Spurs Web Opinion

Despite reports of Chelsea’s interest, I never thought for even one second that Kane would consider joining the Blues. There is no doubt that Mauricio Pochettino would at some stage have attempted reaching out to the striker this summer to explore if a move down the line would be possible.

The post ‘Prepared to reject’ – Harry Kane will not join one club as he mulls over his future at Spurs appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

Former Spurs boss David Pleat played an instrumental role in bringing the midfielder to North London when he persuaded chairman Daniel Levy to part with £5million to bring from League One outfit MK Dons, which proved to be a bargain in February 2015  while Pochettino was in charge of the first team (Football.London).

Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images

Not only that, but Dele took to Premier League football like a duck to water and immediately earned a spot in Pochettino’s starting XI.

The Englishman became a key linchpin in the Spurs set-up, serving as the connection between midfield and Harry Kane in attack.

Dele managed an impressive 67 goals and 61 assists in 269 games for Tottenham (TransferMarkt), but his form dropped off a cliff once Pochettino left the club, and the midfielder was offloaded to Everton in a deal worth a potential £40million with add-ons but has failed to impress on Merseyside and also struggled on loan at Besiktas (The Sun).

Pochettino wants to have a phone call with Dele Alli

Although he definitely did not hint at signing Dele for Chelsea, Pochettino did admit that he wanted to have a phone call with his former player to see if he can help him.

Pochettino said (The Sun): “I hope to have some time to call and see because he is a great guy and I want to talk a bit with him. I want to help him and see what is going on.”

“He’s still young. For sure, he has the mentality.”

Jose Mourinho, who took over from Pochettino warned the England international of a potential demise during his time in charge at Tottenham, which has unfortunately proven to be true.

Speaking to Dele in Tottenham’s All or Nothing docuseries on Amazon Prime during the 2019/20 season, he said: “So what I want to tell you basically is this. I think you feel that I like you.

“You feel I like you as a player and I like you also as a kid, I think you are a nice kid. I don’t want to be your father because you have a father.

“I don’t want to be your uncle or your old brother. I just want to be your coach, but with a good connection. So, I have to tell you always what I think.

“Inside of you, maybe you tell me to f*** off, but I have to tell you exactly what I’ve seen. And for me, since the beginning, I had no doubts about your potential.

“I saw you do incredible matches and incredible things. But I always felt that you had ups and downs.

“There is a huge difference between a player that keeps consistency and the player that has moments. And that is what makes the difference between a top, top player and a player with top potential.

“It’s something that you don’t have to share with me, I think it’s just for you to analyse yourself and to realise why my career is being… MK Dons, top, national team, bang! And then you reach the top and then [up and down gestures].

“Why you have in your career these little ups and downs, I don’t know.

“I don’t know if it has to do with your lifestyle, if in one period you are an amazing professional, if in another period you become a party boy going out, I don’t know. I have no idea, only you can know that.

“I am 56 now, and yesterday, yesterday I was 20. Know what I mean? And today I’m 56, time flies.

“Time flies and I think one day, I think you will regret if you don’t reach what you can reach.

“I’m not expecting you to be the man of the match every game, I’m not expecting you to score goals every game. I want just to tell you that I think you will regret.

“You should demand more from you, not me demanding more from you. Not me, nobody, you. I think you should demand more from you.”

Spurs Web Opinion:

Dele Alli‘s career drop-off will unfortunately go down in history. He was a generational talent, and that really is not overhyping him. His numbers are rarely seen from a midfielder/number ten, especially at such a young age, there is still time for him to rescue his career, he just has to want it.

Hopefully, for his own sake, he can take on board the advice that Pochettino gives him better than what Mourinho warned him about.

The post Mauricio Pochettino claims he wants to hold talks with former Spurs star appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

Pochettino had a five-and-a-half-year association with the Lilywhites, going head-to-head with the Blues in many fierce encounters, including the infamous Battle of the Bridge.

LONDON, ENGLAND – JULY 07: Chelsea Head Coach Mauricio Pochettino poses for the photographer after holding a Press Conference at Stamford Bridge on July 07, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images)

Chelsea and Spurs even battled for the Premier League title in the 2016/17 season, with the Blues finishing on 93 points and Spurs just seven behind.

Many would have imagined that the stars had aligned for a fairytale reunion between Tottenham and Pochettino this summer, after Antonio Conte was sacked during a time in which Poch was out of work.

However, the Lilywhites decided to opt for Ange Postecoglou from Celtic instead, and Pochettino signed on the dotted line with Chelsea to make his Premier League return.

Pochettino does not think Spurs fans will hate him

Some of the reaction from Spurs fans on social media has been less than favourable towards their formerly-beloved boss, but Pochettino does not think Tottenham supporters will like him less.

Pochettino said (Guardian): “I don’t believe that the fans will change.

“But what can they do? Nothing. For me, it is about being focused on trying to do my job here.

“What can I say or do if that happens [Spurs fans hating him]?

“It’s up to them to keep or not the feelings they were feeling in the past.”

Spurs Web Opinion:

Hate is a strong word, but a lot of fans do seem to be feeling that right now. Others feel disappointed, betrayed, or let down by their former manager.

I’m sure that Pochettino is correct, many fans will still love him. But he might be in for a shock come his first visit to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

The post ‘Up to them’ – Pochettino does not think Spurs fans will like him less for joining Chelsea appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

After weeks of searching for a new manager to replace Antonio Conte, going through two interim head coaches in the meantime, Spurs eventually landed on Ange Postecoglou from Celtic.

LONDON, ENGLAND – JULY 07: Chelsea Head Coach Mauricio Pochettino poses for the photographer after holding a Press Conference at Stamford Bridge on July 07, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images)

However, there were numerous Pochettino rumours doing the rounds before that point (SkySports), and long before the Argentine signed on the dotted line with London rivals, Chelsea.

Spurs fans will remember that their once-beloved former manager said that he wants to return to North London to win a trophy with Tottenham one day (BT Sport).

Alan Brazil also revealed that Pochettino told him he was disappointed not to get a call from the Lilywhites during their manager search this year (talkSPORT).

Ossie Ardiles seemed to confirm this, with the Argentine Spurs legend claiming that Pochettino was waiting for a phone call that never arrived.

Pochettino on the Tottenham return rumours

When asked if Spurs contacted him, Pochettino said in his Chelsea press conference this week (Telegraph): “I’m not going to talk [about that].

“I don’t want to say anything in one way or another. We have a very good relationship with Daniel and with all the Tottenham people.

“I think there’s no point. We need to look forwards. What am I going to say – yes, no or maybe? And what is it going to change? Nothing.

“I feel very proud about the past and I am so happy. You never know in football what can happen in the future.

“I am here and I am really happy to be here [at Chelsea] now, and I need to give my best and hope that all together can create again an atmosphere and all the excitement that was in the past in this football club and try to lift trophies – that is our objective.”

Spurs Web Opinion:

I think we can confidently say that Pochettino was likely not called about the Spurs job. Multiple sources claimed he was waiting for the phone call.

I suspect that his love for Tottenham would have trumped most other offers this summer, and Chelsea was not his top choice.

The post ‘You never know’ – Pochettino asked if Spurs contacted him about a return this summer appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

The report explains that Dybala has a release clause of just €12m (£10m) in his contract, which can be activated by clubs outside the Serie A.

(Photo by Marco Canoniero/LightRocket via Getty Images)

It is asserted that Tottenham are one of the clubs monitoring the Argentine’s situation, along with the likes of Manchester United and Chelsea, with the Blues now said to be weighing up an offer for the player.

Chelsea want to beat likes of Spurs to Paulo Dybala

The publication states that having sold Kai Havertz to Arsenal, Pochettino feels that Dybala would be the ideal signing to reinforce Chelsea’s attack ahead of the new season.

Tottenham previously came close to snapping up Dybala back in 2019 when Pochettino was in charge of the North London club but the move collapsed in the last moment due to complications with the forward’s image rights (Independent).

Spurs Web Opinion 

I do not see Dybala as a natural fit for Postecoglou’s system as the Australian prefers aggressive attackers, who work tirelessly off the ball such as Kulusevski, Richarlison, and now potentially Solomon.

I also think Bryan Gil could potentially be handed a lifeline by the Australian if the Spaniard impresses during pre-season.

The post Report: Pochettino wants Chelsea to beat Spurs to 29-year-old attacker  appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

Pochettino was in charge at Tottenham when Kane really made a household name for himself, winning multiple golden boots, playing in a Champions League final, and becoming England captain.

(Photo by Visionhaus)

However, the two parted ways in 2019 when Daniel Levy and co decided to sack Pochettino, just months after the Argentine had led them into the biggest match in club football.

Fast forward four years and Spurs still have Kane on their books, but Pochettino recently joined the club’s arch-rivals, Chelsea – something that hasn’t gone down too well with many Lilywhite fans.

Something that would prove even less popular would be Kane joining Pochettino and the Blues next summer on a free when his Tottenham contract runs out.

The Athletic have already reported that Chelsea are interested in reuniting the Spurs striker with his former manager across London.

Pochettino distances himself from Kane rumours

When asked if he wanted Kane at Chelsea, Pochettino said (Telegraph): “Oh my God!

“I don’t like to talk about players in another club, but you are talking about one of the greatest, one of the best strikers in the world. It’s not fair to talk, it’s not fair to say nothing.

“People are not stupid, fans are not stupid, they are so clever and they know my relationship with him was always amazing.

“I saw him when he was young, grow up and achieve all he was achieving and, of course, we have a great relationship.

“At the moment, we are thinking in different ways. We are not thinking about that. I don’t like to talk about players and more than that players who were close to me.”

Spurs Web Opinion:

If the Pochettino saga achieves one thing, it will show Harry Kane how much backlash he would receive if he joined Chelsea on a free transfer.

It would be very surprising to see him self-destruct his Tottenham legacy for that kind of move, but only time will tell.

The post ‘Close to me’ – Pochettino asked whether he wants to sign Kane for Chelsea appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

Pochettino was in charge of Tottenham for more than five years, taking over in July 2014, and overseeing one of the most successful periods the North London club has enjoyed recently.

(Photo by Visionhaus)

The Argentinian led Spurs to a Champions League final, and regularly challenged at the top of the Premier League table.

It was always a case of nearly but not quite for Pochettino’s Tottenham side, however, and he was relieved of his duties in November 2019.

The Spurs fans have always held a fondness for Pochettino since his departure and many were keen to see the 51-year-old return to the club this summer as the replacement for Antonio Conte.

That didn’t happen, however, and now Pochettino is managing Tottenham’s London rivals, Chelsea, much to the chagrin of the Lilywhites’ supporters.

Pochettino is proud of what he did at Spurs

Speaking at a press conference (via the Daily Mail), Pochettino had this to say on his Tottenham tenure: “It was one year waiting [for a new role]. I am so proud to be here.

“I think it’s a great opportunity to be back in the Premier League for me the best league in the world and of course I think Chelsea convinced me to be here.

“I am very proud about my past [with Tottenham]. I don’t want to talk in a different way but now I need to look forward and concentrate on what the people want from me in this football club and hope to build a very good relationship with everyone.”

Spurs Web Opinion

Pochettino should be very proud of what he achieved with Spurs under the circumstances and it’s a real shame he never won anything with us.

It’s also a shame that he has harmed his legacy with Tottenham by joining Chelsea, but just as he is now looking forward, we have to as well.

The post ‘Proud’ – Mauricio Pochettino hints at Tottenham past in first Chelsea press conference appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

Pochettino. The man whose name we chanted towards the end of last season amid rumours of his return. The man who brought us Champions League football back to White Hart Lane and the man who led us to the Champions League Final.

What a way to completely distance himself from the entire Spurs fanbase…

His decision to join Chelsea after his tenure at Tottenham Hotspur has undoubtedly left many Spurs fans feeling betrayed and disheartened.

While some may argue that Pochettino’s move is a professional choice and that it’s Daniel Levy’s fault for not approaching him in the first place, it is essential to examine why his decision was wrong and the implications it has on his legacy.

Throughout his time at Tottenham, Pochettino earned the loyalty and respect of the fans, players, and the club itself. He transformed the team into genuine title contenders, instilling a sense of unity and purpose.

He even said in an interview a few years back that he would love to return and win a title with Tottenham (BTSport), but that bridge has well and truly been burnt. By jumping ship to a direct rival, he has violated that loyalty, leaving behind a legacy tarnished with feelings of betrayal.

This raises questions about his character and loyalty, leaving me to wonder if his commitment to any club is genuine or merely transactional.

While Pochettino may have made a professional decision to join Chelsea, it is evident that his choice was wrong. The move contradicts the loyalty and passion he inspired at Tottenham Hotspur, and disregards the significance of the rivalry.

I mean, he was our manager at the time of ‘Battle of the Bridge’! He even claimed at one stage that Chelsea were Tottenham’s biggest rivals, not Arsenal! (Sun).

(Photo by Visionhaus)

I look forward to seeing him back at our ground on November 4th, which I’m sure will be a feisty game both on and off the pitch – as it often is vs Chelsea, but even more so now.

Tempted to order 100 plastic snakes to throw onto the pitch.

I await a beautiful Ange Postecoglou masterclass and hope to see some charismatic and free-flowing, attacking football on show.

Ultimately, Pochettino’s decision to join Chelsea betrays the trust and adoration bestowed upon him, leaving a lasting stain on his legacy among Tottenham fans.

Seeing him in Chelsea attire gives me some kind of grim closure to a story I thought wasn’t quite over.

The post Opinion: Pochettino burns the bridge between him and the fanbase who adored him appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.

With Kane now having just one year left on his contract with Spurs, there has understandably been plenty of speculation about the striker’s future over the last couple of months.

Today, it emerged that Bayern Munich had submitted a bid for the Tottenham striker, which is expected to be rejected by Daniel Levy and co (Guardian).

LONDON, ENGLAND – MAY 20: Harry Kane of Tottenham Hotspur applauds the fans as he warms up prior to the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Brentford FC at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on May 20, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)

The likes of Manchester United (Daily Star), Real Madrid (Marca), Paris Saint-Germain (Foot Mercato), and Bayern Munich (The Athletic) have all been credited with an interest in the England captain this summer.

However, reports over the last couple of weeks have suggested that the striker could now be set to stay in N17, with Ben Jacobs recently telling The United Stand that Levy may keep hold of his star striker and hope that he is won over by Ange Postecoglou’s management.

Kane wants to leave Spurs in search of silverware

If The Telegraph’s latest report is to be believed, Kane feels he is ready to start a meaningful hunt for silverware away from Tottenham this summer.

It is pointed out that, of all the outfield players to start for England against North Macedonia, Kane was the only one without a trophy on his CV.

Spurs Web Opinion 

It appears the most likely route out of Tottenham is now Bayern Munich, which would suit all parties involved, but the German club will need to bid at least £80m. Spending a couple of years away with Bayern, then coming back to Spurs would be a dream scenario.

The post Report: What England teammates learned about Kane’s future on international duty appeared first on Spurs Web - Tottenham Hotspur Football News.