Igor Tudor was left to reflect on a difficult start to life at Tottenham Hotspur after his side were beaten 4–1 by Arsenal in Sunday’s Premier League North London derby.
The Croatian had previously won his first match at each of his last five clubs, but that run came to an end following a damaging second-half display. The teams were level at the interval after Eberechi Eze put Arsenal ahead in the 32nd minute, only for Randal Kolo Muani to respond shortly after with a brilliant solo goal — Tudor’s first as Spurs manager.
Arsenal, however, seized control after the break. Viktor Gyokeres restored their lead just two minutes into the second half with a superb strike from distance. Kolo Muani later saw a second effort ruled out for a foul on Gabriel Magalhaes before Arsenal extended their advantage when a deflection off Joao Palhinha fell kindly for Eze to net his second. Gyokeres completed the rout in stoppage time, curling beyond Guglielmo Vicario.
After the match, Tudor acknowledged the current difference in levels between the two sides. He admitted Arsenal were superior, particularly given Spurs’ ongoing challenges, but insisted the defeat provided clarity about the work required. According to Tudor, the team must improve its mentality, habits, and overall intensity to close the gap.
He pointed to shortcomings in sharpness, conditioning, and confidence, explaining that their attempt to press high exposed their lack of physical readiness. At this level, he noted, even small delays are punished. He described the defeat as a necessary reality check and urged his players to take responsibility and raise standards.
Despite the heavy loss, Tudor commended the squad’s effort and willingness to implement his ideas, while conceding they are not yet fully equipped to execute them effectively. He stressed the need to remain grounded and refocus immediately.
When asked whether the challenge was greater than anticipated, Tudor referenced the unusual circumstances — particularly injuries — but maintained faith in the group’s desire to improve.
He went as far as describing Arsenal as arguably the strongest side in world football at present, highlighting the years of development behind their mentality, organisation, and physicality. A handful of training sessions, he admitted, cannot erase such a gap.
Looking ahead to the remaining 11 fixtures, Tudor remained positive, saying the defeat clearly outlines the standard Spurs must strive to reach. He declined to criticise officials over Kolo Muani’s disallowed goal and expressed hope that Pedro Porro and Kevin Danso could return for the upcoming match against Fulham.
He also singled out Kolo Muani for praise, applauding his impact and energy, and describing his performance as one of the few positives from an otherwise sobering evening.
