Football Season Guide

Tottenham had high hopes last season following successful transfer activity last summer, but a drop in form from January onwards saw them miss out on Champions League qualification and they will have to settle for a place in the newly created Confederation League. Mourinho led the Spurs to the Carabao Cup final but was dismissed before the game, with inexperienced Mason taking over but failing to inspire them to a victory in the decider against Manchester City. Long-serving players Erik Lamela, Toby Alderweireld and Danny Rose left the club, while Carlos Vinícius and Gareth Bale returned to their parent clubs, as Tottenham will embark on a fresh start under former Wolves coach Nuno. Promising winger Bryan Gil joined from Sevilla and talented centre-back Cristian Romero signed from Atalanta, while Pierluigi Gollini was brought in on loan from Atalanta to replace Joe Hart, who joined Celtic. Nuno hasn’t tried out his preferred three-man defensive formation, but it will be interesting to see whether he will do so following the return of all his internationals and the recruitment of summer signings. Tottenham’s main strength has been their attack and their priority this summer is to keep hold on star striker Harry Kane, who has expressed his wish to depart the club. Meanwhile, the Spurs tied Son down to a new deal and the South Korean forward is expected to step up in the event Kane leaves this summer. In their bid to win their first title in 14 years, the Spurs need to strengthen their midfield, which was their main weakness last season, as neither Sissoko nor Winks managed to impress.