Spurs' Struggles in the WSL: A Season of Regression or Rebuilding?

Spurs' Season So Far: A Mixed Bag

Tottenham Hotspur's Women's Super League (WSL) campaign has been marked by inconsistency and frustration. Currently sitting sixth in the table, Spurs are two points ahead of Liverpool and one behind Brighton. However, their performances have been far less convincing compared to last season, and they trail local rivals Arsenal by a significant 10 points.

High Expectations and the Reality Check

After finishing sixth last season and making an appearance in the FA Cup final, expectations were high for Spurs to break into the top four this term. However, their form has dipped, and they have fallen victim to the dreaded "second-season syndrome." Despite their relatively stable league position, they are a staggering 20 points behind league leaders Chelsea, who have dropped only two points all season.

Men's Team Parallels

The men's team has also faced similar challenges. After securing a fifth-place finish in the Premier League last season, hopes were high. However, a disappointing run of 13 losses from 24 games and an ongoing injury crisis have left them languishing in 14th place, casting doubt on manager Ange Postecoglou's future.

Women's Team Woes: Attack and Defense

Gaps in Attack

Spurs suffered significant setbacks in the summer transfer window, losing key attacking threats Grace Clinton and Celin Bizet. Their departures left a void that manager Robert Vilahamn has struggled to fill. Despite bringing in experienced winger Hayley Raso and technically gifted midfielder Maite Oroz, Spurs' attack lacks the fluidity and potency of last season.

Defensive Struggles

Defensively, Spurs have also been plagued by injuries. Key players like Eveliina Summanen and Amy James-Turner have been sidelined, and young defender Ella Morris has been absent due to an MCL issue. Despite the addition of Clare Hunt, Spurs have struggled to find defensive stability, conceding 26 goals in 13 games—the second-highest in the league.

Financial Constraints and the Gulf with Top Teams

Spurs are among the many WSL clubs struggling to keep pace with the financial might of the traditional top four: Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester United, and Manchester City. These clubs have leveraged their substantial budgets to build world-class squads, widening the gap with the rest of the league. Chelsea, in particular, have flexed their financial muscles, breaking the world transfer record twice in the past year.

Looking Ahead

With the FA Cup campaign already over and just nine games left in the WSL, Spurs must find consistency, especially against lower-table opposition. Their ability to address both offensive and defensive issues will be crucial in determining whether this season is seen as a regression or a rebuilding phase.

As Vilahamn aptly puts it, "We are a top-six side, but we're not a top-four team. If you expect us to win against the top teams, it's too early to expect that."