Mourinho Masterclass vs City

This weeks analysis focused on the clash of managerial titans with Mourinho vs Guardiola.

The game ended 2-0 to Tottenham and proved to be a Mourinho masterclass.

Tottenham conceded possession in this game, which Mourinho likes to do. Sit back, remain compact and hit the opposition on the counter attack.

Starting from the front NDombele joined Kane in attack to become a 1442 without the ball. Here the objective was to prevent the ball going into City’s playmaker Rhodri. Remain narrow and force ball outside.

When ball went wide Tottenham looked to shift and compress the side the ball went to. The idea here was to compress City and prevent a switch of play. If City did manage to get down the lie Tottenham were there in numbers to crowd out and prevent crosses coming in.

On the counter Tottenham would look to break at speed. Kane would come short and would provide an out ball. He draws pressure but is also exceptional holding the ball up.

When Kane comes short he has good support around hi. Usually a bounce pass back into midfield or runners going i behind him. Son and Bergwijn did a great job of this with Son opening the scoring.

Key features:

• Mid-low block

• Prevent ball into City DM Rhodri

• Look to compress the side

• In counter Kane comes short

• Has support but also runs in behind

• If counter not on, look to move ball out of pressure and build attack

Tottenham were outstanding in this game. Tactically astute but also the work rate of the players showed a team who are organized, disciplined and devastating in front of goal. Mourinho seems to have got his swagger back. It is early of title talk aside from what the media say but one thing is certain, Tottenham look a side that is out to compete this year. If they can keep Kane and Son fit things will get interesting.