Tottenham Hotspur: Are They Premier League Title Contenders?

Tottenham Hotspur is currently leading the Premier League, a sentence you rarely hear. If they win against Crystal Palace, they will be five points ahead of the rest of the pack temporarily, raising the possibility of a “Leicester-like” season.

No title winners have been more surprising than Leicester City in 2015-16. After narrowly avoiding relegation the season before, they defied 5000-1 preseason odds to become champions. Since then, Manchester City, Chelsea, and Liverpool have emerged as champions in the following seasons.

Last season, Arsenal gave a good fight but ultimately finished behind treble-winning Manchester City. Despite exceeding expectations, they entered the season with an established coach and squad stability.

On the other hand, Tottenham started the season in turmoil. They appointed Ange Postecoglou as manager after failing to secure other candidates. The club’s top goal scorer, Harry Kane, expressed his desire to leave. The fans started a campaign to remove Daniel Levy, the longest-serving club chairman. Without Kane’s goals, it seemed likely that they would have a season of decline.

However, two months into the season, Spurs are unbeaten and Postecoglou’s positive approach has united the fanbase. Son Heung-Min has stepped up as the leading goal scorer. But when does a good start become a signifier of the season ahead? Should Spurs be considered genuine contenders for the title?

A year ago, Tottenham had a strong start but suffered defeats against teams above them in the table. This season, they have already emerged unbeaten from matches against top teams like Arsenal and Liverpool. They have also beaten Manchester United. Their success can be attributed to a change in atmosphere under Postecoglou, as well as impressive performances from players like Son, Richarlison, and Kulusevski.

Postecoglou has made bold decisions by dropping established players and giving opportunities to new signings. The squad depth remains a question, but Leicester City had a small squad when they won the title in 2015-16.

Now, facing tough upcoming matches against Crystal Palace, Chelsea, Aston Villa, and Manchester City, Tottenham must overcome each challenge to prove they are serious contenders for the Premier League title.