New interim head coach Igor Tudor faces a daunting introduction to life at Tottenham Hotspur with this weekend’s high-stakes North London Derby.
Spurs welcome arch-rivals Arsenal to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in what is shaping up to be one of the standout fixtures of the Premier League season. The pressure is immense: it will be Tudor’s first game in charge, with Tottenham still fighting to distance themselves from the relegation zone. Arsenal, meanwhile, sit top of the table and are chasing their first league title in 22 years. Their midweek stumble against Wolverhampton Wanderers — where they surrendered a two-goal lead — only heightens the tension surrounding the clash.
Tudor has wasted no time stamping his authority on the squad. Supporters will be hoping for a performance that not only eases relegation fears but also disrupts Arsenal’s title ambitions. There is renewed belief around the club following the exit of Thomas Frank, whose tenure ended amid growing unrest from the stands.
In his first interview with club media, Tudor stressed courage, intensity and attacking ambition, making it clear he has no intention of setting up his side simply to secure a draw.
From a tactical standpoint, he is expected to deploy his preferred 3-4-2-1 system, using two attacking midfielders behind a central striker to inject fresh energy into Tottenham’s frontline.
Dominic Solanke is tipped to spearhead the attack, while Xavi Simons has strengthened his claim for one of the advanced roles following a series of impressive displays. The other attacking berth remains open.
Randal Kolo Muani — who previously worked with Tudor at Juventus — is an option, though he may be more suited to a central role.
Another strong candidate is Mathys Tel. The young forward saw limited opportunities under Frank despite his pace and direct approach, prompting frustration among fans.
Earlier in the campaign, former interim boss Tim Sherwood criticised Tel’s display in the defeat to West Ham United, describing it as underwhelming after he was replaced by Solanke.
Now, Tudor’s arrival could hand the France Under-21 international a clean slate. Operating alongside Simons with licence to drift inside and wide may better suit the £30 million signing from Bayern Munich.
With his speed and sharp movement, Tel possesses the qualities to trouble Arsenal’s back line and offer vital support to the main striker — and this derby could mark the start of a new chapter in his Premier League journey.
