Kulusevski’s Resurgence: A Key Player in Tottenham’s Success

Tottenham Hotspur’s emphatic 3-0 win over Manchester United at Old Trafford not only showcased their development under new manager Ange Postecoglou but also highlighted the resurgence of one key player in particular: Dejan Kulusevski. While the victory was an important milestone for the team as they seek to prove their credentials this season, Kulusevski’s role in Tottenham’s progress has been nothing short of transformative. Once a peripheral figure, the Swedish midfielder has become central to Postecoglou’s system and is finally fulfilling his potential, functioning as if he were a new signing for Spurs.

This was a game that Tottenham needed to win. Despite some promising performances earlier in the season, the North London club had struggled to translate dominance into decisive victories. Their triumph over Manchester United, however, was comprehensive, reflecting the tactical evolution that Postecoglou has implemented since arriving from Celtic in the summer. The Australian manager, known for his high-tempo, possession-based style, has reshaped Spurs in his image, and the results are starting to show.

Post-match discussions largely revolved around Manchester United’s struggles under Erik ten Hag, but Spurs deserve immense credit for their performance. While players like Dominic Solanke, who offered a sharp edge in the attacking third, and Micky van de Ven, who was immense in defense, stood out, it was Dejan Kulusevski who arguably stole the show. His contribution in the midfield was instrumental in Tottenham’s control of the game, helping his team dictate play and apply relentless pressure on the Red Devils.

Kulusevski’s transformation this season under Postecoglou is particularly noteworthy. Last season, the 24-year-old Swede often found himself relegated to the right-wing position, where he performed admirably but rarely played a starring role. There were flashes of brilliance, but his influence on matches was inconsistent, and he struggled to carve out a definitive spot in the squad under former manager Antonio Conte. This season, however, things have changed drastically for Kulusevski, as he has been moved into a more central role where he has become one of Tottenham’s most important and consistent performers.

In Postecoglou’s new-look midfield, Kulusevski operates alongside the likes of Rodrigo Bentancur and James Maddison, forming a dynamic and well-balanced trio. While Maddison has long been regarded as one of England’s top creative players, his partnership with Kulusevski this season has brought the best out of both midfielders. Maddison’s vision and passing ability complement Kulusevski’s tireless work ethic and driving runs, making them a potent combination that has given Spurs an extra edge in their attacking play.

What’s particularly impressive about Kulusevski’s development this season is his versatility. Known primarily as an attacking player, he has added new dimensions to his game under Postecoglou, contributing both offensively and defensively. His ability to transition between defense and attack has been crucial for Tottenham, allowing them to maintain control of the ball and dictate the tempo of matches. Against Manchester United, Kulusevski showcased this skillset, winning key duels in the midfield and driving forward with purpose to create opportunities for his teammates.

“Kulusevski has been like a new signing for us this season,” Postecoglou remarked after the Manchester United game. “His ability to disrupt defenses with his running, his work rate off the ball, and his technical quality on it have made a big difference for us. He and Maddison have formed a great partnership, and that balance is really important in the way we want to play.”

Indeed, the balance that Postecoglou speaks of has been a key feature of Tottenham’s improved performances this season. Kulusevski’s newfound role as a creative force in the center of the pitch has allowed Maddison to thrive as well, with both players sharing the burden of orchestrating Spurs’ attacks. Bentancur, sitting deeper in midfield, provides the platform for Kulusevski and Maddison to push forward, and his ability to control the tempo of the game has also been a crucial factor in Tottenham’s success.

This balance was evident in Tottenham’s 3-0 victory over Manchester United. Kulusevski played a pivotal role in breaking up United’s midfield play, while also linking up with Maddison to create numerous chances for Tottenham’s forward line. His energy and intelligence on the ball kept United’s defense under constant pressure, and his movement off the ball allowed Spurs to stretch United’s backline and exploit gaps in their defense.

In many ways, Kulusevski’s resurgence is a testament to Postecoglou’s ability to get the best out of his players. The Australian manager has shown a willingness to experiment with his tactics, and his decision to move Kulusevski into a more central role has paid off in spades. Kulusevski has repaid this faith by becoming a vital cog in Tottenham’s midfield machine, and his performances have been crucial in helping Spurs to implement Postecoglou’s tactical philosophy.

While Tottenham’s progress under Postecoglou is still very much a work in progress, the signs are encouraging. The victory over Manchester United, coming on the back of several strong performances earlier in the season, is evidence that the team is moving in the right direction. And at the heart of that progress is Kulusevski, whose transformation from a peripheral figure to a key player has been one of the highlights of Tottenham’s season so far.

With Kulusevski playing at the top of his game, Tottenham can look forward to the rest of the season with optimism. His partnership with Maddison and Bentancur in midfield gives Postecoglou the tactical flexibility to compete against the Premier League’s top teams, and his ability to disrupt opposition defenses and create chances will be crucial in determining whether Spurs can challenge for silverware this season.

For Tottenham Hotspur, Kulusevski is not just a player who has improved—he is a player reborn, a midfielder who has found his place in Postecoglou’s system and is thriving in a way that few could have predicted just a few months ago. As Spurs continue to build under their new manager, Kulusevski looks set to play a pivotal role in the team’s journey toward success.