Discover how Tottenham Hotspur are succeeding in the Premier League after Harry Kane’s departure. From tactical evolution to rising stars, here’s how Spurs are thriving in the league.

How Spurs Are Thriving Without Kane in the 2025 Premier League

When Harry Kane left Tottenham Hotspur for Bayern Munich in 2023, many predicted the North London club would struggle to fill the void left by their all-time leading scorer. His departure was expected to usher in a period of rebuilding, transition, and uncertainty. After all, Kane had been the face of the club for nearly a decade — the man who delivered goals, carried expectations, and defined Spurs' modern identity.

But fast forward to the 2025 Wild33 Premier League season, and Tottenham Hotspur are not just surviving without Kane — they’re thriving. From tactical evolution under Ange Postecoglou to the emergence of new stars and collective mentality, Spurs have redefined themselves as one of the most exciting teams in the league.

Let’s explore how they’ve managed this impressive transformation.

A New Identity Under Ange Postecoglou

One of the most significant shifts post-Kane has been tactical. Ange Postecoglou has crafted a distinct identity rooted in high pressing, fluid attacking movement, and positional discipline. Without Kane acting as the focal point, Spurs have diversified their attacking play.

From Kane-Centric to Collective Attack

Under previous managers, much of Spurs’ offensive play revolved around Kane. His ability to drop deep, create, and finish made him the system. Postecoglou’s system, however, emphasizes positional rotation, wide play, and rapid transitions. This allows multiple players to share attacking responsibilities — making the team less predictable and more dynamic.

Midfield Revolution

The midfield trio, led by Yves Bissouma and Pape Matar Sarr, has become crucial in ball recovery and progressing play. Their energy, pressing, and ball-carrying ability have turned Tottenham into a side that dominates transitions — a key factor in thriving without Kane's hold-up play.

Son Heung-min’s Leadership and Reinvention

After Kane’s exit, many looked to Son Heung-min to fill the leadership and scoring gap. The South Korean forward has stepped up brilliantly — not by imitating Kane’s role, but by redefining his own.

Captaincy That Inspires

Appointed club captain, Son has embraced the responsibility with maturity. He leads by example on and off the pitch, setting the tone with his work ethic and professionalism.

Positionally Adaptable

Son has also been deployed more centrally at times, functioning either as a false nine or a second striker. His pace, intelligent movement, and link-up play make him a versatile threat in Postecoglou’s flexible system.

Richarlison’s Redemption Arc

Initially struggling to find consistency after arriving from Everton, Richarlison is finally delivering in 2025. With Kane out of the picture, he’s been given a consistent run as a central striker and is growing into the role.

Physical Presence with Mobility

Richarlison offers a different type of threat than Kane — more mobile, aggressive in the press, and tenacious in duels. His physicality allows Spurs to maintain attacking pressure high up the pitch, aligning well with Postecoglou’s style.

Scoring and Creating

While he doesn’t match Kane’s goal tally, Richarlison contributes in other ways — pressing defenders, drawing fouls, and assisting wide attackers. His selfless approach has earned him a vital spot in the starting XI.

Tactical Depth and Squad Rotation

Another reason for Tottenham’s resurgence is their squad depth and smart rotation. Injuries and fixture congestion are inevitable, but Postecoglou has developed a tactical system that allows different players to slot in without disrupting flow.

Dejan Kulusevski and Brennan Johnson

Both players have brought width and pace to the attack. Kulusevski’s left-footed creativity from the right flank complements Johnson’s directness on the opposite wing. Their ability to press and counter at speed is a key asset in breaking down high lines.

Destiny Udogie and Pedro Porro

The fullbacks are essential to Spurs’ buildup and final-third entries. Udogie, in particular, has grown into one of the league’s most complete left-backs — offering overlapping runs, crosses, and even goal threats.

Defensive Solidity with a Modern Touch

Tottenham's defensive improvement has been just as important as their attacking evolution. The centre-back pairing of Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven has provided balance — combining aggression and recovery pace.

New Goalkeeping Confidence

The arrival of Guglielmo Vicario as first-choice goalkeeper has given Spurs a modern shot-stopper who’s comfortable with his feet, crucial in Postecoglou’s buildup.

High Defensive Line

Tottenham now operate with a high line and coordinated pressing. This risky yet rewarding approach has stifled opponents and allowed quick recovery of possession — especially in the middle third.

Embracing Youth and Long-Term Vision

Spurs’ academy has continued to produce talent, and Postecoglou has shown trust in young players. The likes of Alfie Devine and Jamie Donley have seen minutes in the first team — a sign that the club’s success isn’t built just for now, but for the future.

Strategic Transfers

Rather than chasing marquee signings, Spurs have focused on acquiring players who fit the system. The recruitment under Sporting Director Johan Lange has been sharp, data-driven, and progressive — aligning with the manager’s football philosophy.

Results and Mentality

Tottenham are currently sitting firmly in the Premier League top four — a far cry from the predicted post-Kane collapse. They've beaten top sides, maintained consistency against mid-table opposition, and shown grit in late-game situations.

Mental Shift

Perhaps the most underrated transformation has been psychological. Spurs, long plagued by accusations of mental fragility, are now playing with confidence, purpose, and belief — no longer reliant on one superstar to bail them out.

Final Thoughts: Tottenham’s Bright Future

The narrative around Tottenham Hotspur has shifted dramatically in the two seasons since Harry Kane's departure. What was expected to be a period of decline has turned into a renaissance. By focusing on tactical flexibility, youth development, and collective strength, Spurs have proved that no player — no matter how great — is bigger than the club.

They’ve not replaced Harry Kane. They’ve evolved beyond him.

In doing so, they’ve become a more balanced, unpredictable, and resilient side — one that can compete at the highest level in the league and perhaps even beyond.

Support the Evolution of the Beautiful Game

Whether you're a Spurs fan or a lover of football in general, now is the time to appreciate the power of adaptation and team spirit. Support your club’s journey, celebrate tactical growth, and recognize the beauty of evolving beyond dependence on one star.

Because the league is more than just goals and glory — it’s about growth, belief, and unity.

Support the league. Support the game.