Dichotomy of Priorities for Pochettino and Spurs

Article by Adarsh Kam

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Until last year, the Europa League was only a glorified nuisance. Teams had to play as many as 15 matches, the away games were often at far flung corners of Europe and the winner of the competition wasn’t allowed automatic qualification to the Champions League. Mauricio Pochettino’s decision would have been easy then. But this year, UEFA finally did the sensible thing and the Europa League now provides Tottenham with an alternate passport to its much lucrative older brother, the Champions League.

As Spurs get ready to face a Fiorentina side bedecked with as many as nine ex-Premier League stars, Pochettino would be thinking long and hard on the decision on hand – Which is the BEST route for Tottenham to next season’s Champions League?

Pursue the Europa League? Sure, why not. They won’t have the likes of Barca, Real, Bayern or even Chelsea to fear about. But, at what cost should they decide to pursue that date with destiny at Stadion Narodowy on May 27? If recent seasons are any indication, it’s that Spurs usually suffer a collapse at the worst possible time when they are juggling their hopes in multiple competitions. The Thursday-Sunday conundrum always takes its toll and leaves a barrage of bad results in its wake. It would be felt the most when Spurs emerge from the tunnels of Wembley to face Chelsea in the Capital One Cup final less than 72 hours after their trip to Florence.

Pochettino will ideally field the likes of Paulinho, Stamboulli, Ben Davies, Fazio, Vorm, Townsend and Soldado on Thursdays. However, bearing in mind that this ‘second string’ side only limped to second spot in the group stage, Pochettino will probably have to avail the risk of playing his trump cards – Lloris, Eriksen, Kane and the seemingly rejuvenated Vertonghen – in Europe as well. Spurs’ decision to cart off Kaboul and Lennon might also come back to haunt them as they aren’t exactly spoilt for choices on the Centre Back and Winger front.

Pochettino should use the two-legged tie against Florentina to gauge the side’s chances in Europe. As a standalone competition, the Europa League might seem to offer an easier chance than the Premier League. But, the new look Tottenham Hotspur team with Mauricio Pochettino’s philosophy firmly instilled, are a truly confident side growing with self-belief with each passing matchday. They fear no one and will surely feel that they can catch up with problem-laden Manchester United and the impressive but brittle looking Saints. So, a top four finish is also very much within reach and there for the taking.

After that embarrassing home defeat to Stoke in early November, the season did appear bleak and Pochettino was left staring at a seemingly insurmountable challenge. Now that is all but forgotten as Pochettino conjured up a remarkable turnaround leading Spurs to a string of excellent results. The memorable scalps of Chelsea and Arsenal bear testament to the excellent debut season he has had so far.

Now, Pochettino might be faced with an even bigger challenge. But, my bet is on the Argentinean with his steadfast policy of believing in youth. If anyone can lead Spurs back to Europe’s elite competition again, it should be that man. Forget about the route we should take to the Champions League. Just sit back, buckle up and enjoy the ride.

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