Thomas Frank changed Tottenham: why Spurs play differently with the new manager.

According to The Sun: Not much time has passed since Thomas Frank was appointed manager of Tottenham, but optimistic trends for the club's supporters can already be noticed.

The acquisition of Xavi Simmons for £52 million has added hope regarding the team's prospects this season.

Instagram / spursofficial Xavi Simmons scored 17 goals in the Bundesliga last season

Ang Postecoglou was sacked by Daniel Levy at the end of last season, despite his historic victory over Manchester United in the Europa League final.

Frank, the former Brentford manager, has been tasked with bringing calmness and organization to the team.

Postecoglou resigned due to poor Premier League results, with the team finishing 17th – just one step above the relegation zone.

However, Frank has already made a noticeable impact on the team's play.

Tottenham suffered a disappointing defeat in the Super Cup final, failing to hold a two-goal lead, but currently, the team is one of three that have a 100% record in the early part of the season along with Liverpool and Arsenal.

Under Frank’s management, the team has yet to concede a goal in two Premier League matches, notably performing exceptionally well in a 2-0 victory over Manchester City.

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What role will Simons play?

Dutch international Xavi Simons is likely to take a position on the left flank in a 4-3-3 formation, allowing him to use his preferred right foot for strikes.

The star graduate of Barcelona combines speed and one-on-one ability, making him dangerous for defenders.

The young player adeptly dribbles opponents, allowing him to maneuver in tight spaces and maintain control of the ball.

Possible Tottenham lineup with Simons on the left flank

However, he can also play the role of a 'number ten' in a 5-3-2 formation.

Simons is known for his incisiveness, ability to find gaps, and making critical passes that could be decisive for breaking down opponents’ defenses.

His ability to deliver passes with the outside of his foot adds unpredictability to his game.

Simons can also play in midfield if Frank changes the formation

His relentless pressing and high work rate, honed at RB Leipzig, fit Frank’s demands for aggressive off-the-ball play.

These qualities allow the coach to adapt tactics during the match, which is characteristic of his management style.

With match control and readiness to take risks, he often earns free kicks that could be important for set pieces.

His technical skills on the wing with the ball also provide Tottenham with another powerful weapon.

Simons could become one of the best signings of the summer.

And he will fit into a Tottenham squad that, under Frank's guidance, is showing significant progress in play.

Man-to-man

Last season under Postecoglou, Tottenham employed a very structured system in both defense and attack.

The 4-2-3-1 formation was quite narrow.

Without the ball, the team tried to hold position to force opponents into central passes that could be pressed.

However, this system was too rigid, allowing opponents to exploit free spaces.

Under Frank's management, a noticeable shift in defensive style is already observed.

Frank demands that the team presses the ball more aggressively and employs a 'man-to-man' tactic.

Tottenham demonstrated discipline in their game against Man City

Frank was not afraid to leave Cristian Romero one-on-one with Erling Haaland, allowing the stoppage of Manchester City’s attacks.

Frank used six players to push forward, anticipating how Haaland would return to the ball.

This aggression was also noted during the match against PSG, where Tottenham attempted to stop the reigning Champions League winners.

This style of play has its risks if opponents manage to execute direct passes, but so far, the team shows high effectiveness under Frank’s management.

Conclusion

Although it is still early to evaluate the situation, encouraging changes can already be seen.

Tottenham looks more organized and prepared.

While the decision to sack Postecoglou after winning the Europa League final may be risky, Levy might have acted wisely by bringing in Frank to improve the club's situation.