The Forgotten Spurs: Why Next Season Could Be Their Redemption Arc
There’s something undeniably captivating about a comeback story, especially in football. And if you’re a Tottenham fan, you’re in for a treat. Next season might just be the year of the forgotten heroes—players who, for various reasons, faded into the background but are now poised to reclaim the spotlight. Personally, I think this narrative is what makes football so compelling. It’s not just about the new signings or the shiny trophies; it’s about the resilience of those who were written off.
Take Dejan Kulusevski, for instance. It’s almost surreal to think he hasn’t played a single game since May 2025. A year out of action due to knee issues? That’s enough to end careers, but Kulusevski isn’t just any player. What makes this particularly fascinating is his mindset. The guy has a mental fortitude that’s rare in football. When he returns, it won’t just be about his skills—it’ll be about proving that setbacks are temporary. From my perspective, he’s the kind of player who could single-handedly shift the momentum of a game. And in a squad that’s been crying out for consistency, that’s invaluable.
Then there’s James Maddison. His ACL injury last season was a gut punch, not just for him but for the entire team. What many people don’t realize is that Maddison’s absence wasn’t just about missing a player—it was about losing a creative force, a leader in the dressing room. De Zerbi’s cautious approach with him last season was smart, but it also meant we barely saw him. Now, with a full pre-season under his belt, Maddison could be the game-changer Spurs desperately need. If you take a step back and think about it, his return could be the catalyst for a more cohesive midfield.
Mohammed Kudus is another player who’s been flying under the radar. Injured since January, he still managed to be one of Spurs’ top assist providers. That’s not just talent—that’s sheer determination. What this really suggests is that Kudus has the potential to be a linchpin in De Zerbi’s system. But here’s the thing: he’s been overplayed in the past, and that’s a recipe for burnout. De Zerbi needs to use him wisely, not just as a workhorse but as a strategic weapon.
Dominic Solanke is a player who’s been written off by many fans, and I get it. Injuries have plagued him, and his goal tally last season was underwhelming. But here’s where people are missing the point: Solanke’s potential is still there. In my opinion, he’s a striker who thrives in the right system, and De Zerbi’s setup might just be it. If he can stay fit—a big if—he could be the goal machine Spurs need.
Destiny Udogie is another player who’s been overshadowed, partly due to injuries and partly because he’s still so young. But what makes him stand out is his consistency when he’s on the pitch. With Andy Robertson as competition, Udogie has the perfect opportunity to learn and grow. This raises a deeper question: how will De Zerbi manage two talented left-backs? Personally, I think it’s a luxury problem, one that could push both players to new heights.
What’s most intriguing about this group is their collective hunger. They’re not just fighting for a spot in the starting XI; they’re fighting to prove they’re still relevant. In a sport where players are often discarded after a bad season, these guys are a reminder that talent doesn’t disappear overnight.
But here’s the broader perspective: Tottenham’s success next season might not just depend on their new signings but on how these forgotten players are reintegrated. De Zerbi has a tough job ahead of him, but if he gets it right, Spurs could be a force to reckon with.
One thing that immediately stands out is how much of a gamble this is. Relying on players coming back from long-term injuries is risky. But football, at its core, is about taking risks. And sometimes, those risks pay off in ways no one expects.
So, as we look ahead to next season, keep an eye on these players. They’re not just names on a squad list—they’re stories waiting to unfold. And in football, as in life, it’s the stories that keep us coming back for more.
