Last season was a season of rebuilding for Tottenham Hotspur, yet they were so close to reaching the top four. They challenged Arsenal all the way till the final day of the season, but in the end fell agonizingly short of their target.
Many would say that Spurs finished in top four the previous season. True enough, but did they enjoy Champions League football? Did they receive Champions League money? No. Rather, they started from scratch, under a new manager, with a different set of ideology and system.
Most importantly, they lost their precious jewel, Luka Modric to Real Madrid and the onus was on the manager to reshape the squad, according to his own taste. It took time for Spurs’ players to adapt to the system of their new manager, but once they grappled the concept, results started to fall in place.
The cream of the crop was obviously Gareth Bale, who almost single-handedly carried Spurs to the doors of top four. He not only scored goals, but scored crucial goals, as most of them proved to be match-winners for his side.
However, his future is well speculated throughout the summer. Bale was linked with a move to Real Madrid for a world record transfer fee, but despite genuine interests from the Spanish giants, they have failed to strike a deal, so far.
Obviously, losing the Welshman will be a huge blow to the side, but it seems like Spurs are pretty confident of having him at the squad this season. They have added few quality players to the squad that will bolster their chances of finishing in top four this season.
Andre Villas-Boas added a versatile winger in Nacer Chadli, who can play in both right and left side of the midfield. Further, two quality midfielders have been added in the form of Brazilian Paulinho and French international Etienne Capoue.
However, by adding a quality striker to the side, the Portuguese has made the biggest signing of the season so far for Spurs. Roberto Soldado was a proven goal scorer at Valencia and will add an extra dimension to the Tottenham side.
On pen and paper at the moment, Spurs have the look of a better team than Arsenal. But, the transfer window is not over yet, and things can change very quickly. If Spurs can keep hold of Bale, with this squad, they should challenge their rivals for the Champions League spot.
Check out the Premier League 2013-14 preview here
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