In just over a season, Ange Postecoglou has breathed new life into Tottenham Hotspur, transforming the team from one that played uninspiring, pragmatic football into an attacking force that excites fans weekly.
Before the Australian manager arrived, Spurs’ style under previous coaches had frustrated supporters, as it failed to produce the thrilling, competitive edge fans hoped for. While there remain challenges to address, Postecoglou’s influence has returned Tottenham to an enjoyable brand of football, restoring energy and dynamism to their play.
But Postecoglou’s impact extends beyond tactics. He has overseen a significant squad overhaul, bringing in a range of new talent. Among these signings, one player’s value has risen sharply, now even surpassing that of James Maddison. Notably, Maddison and Brennan Johnson, two of Postecoglou’s acquisitions, have seen significant changes in their performances and valuations since joining Tottenham, with Johnson’s impressive form placing his market value above Maddison’s.
Maddison’s Valuation in 2024
Tottenham spent £40 million to sign James Maddison from Leicester City in the summer of 2023. Given his talent, the deal appeared to be a shrewd investment, with Maddison coming off strong seasons as one of Leicester’s top playmakers. Since his arrival, he has generally justified his price tag, though his performances have occasionally been inconsistent.
In his first ten league games last season, the midfielder scored three goals, provided five assists, and looked like one of the league’s premier midfielders. However, a mid-season injury affected his form, and upon his return, he appeared a bit out of rhythm. By the season’s end, Maddison had scored four goals and provided nine assists across 30 appearances—a respectable record but short of his early-season impact.
In the current season, Maddison has displayed flashes of his potential, tallying two goals and four assists in 12 matches. However, he struggled to make an impact in Tottenham’s recent encounters, such as his half-time substitution against West Ham and his lackluster showing against Crystal Palace. Despite these ups and downs, Maddison’s valuation remains on an upward trajectory due to his undeniable skill, his age, and the length of his contract. Transfermarkt has valued him at €70 million (about £58 million), which represents an £18 million increase from the fee Spurs initially paid.
However, Maddison isn’t the only Postecoglou signing to see a spike in value. Another acquisition from last summer has surpassed him in both valuation and recent performance.
Brennan Johnson’s Valuation in 2024
Signed from Nottingham Forest on deadline day for £47.5 million, Brennan Johnson faced a challenging start at Tottenham. Initially, he struggled to adapt to the team and was limited to a single goal and three assists in his first 12 appearances. Despite this slow start, Johnson found his rhythm as the season progressed, finishing with five goals and ten assists in 32 league matches—an impressive tally considering his early difficulties.
This season has witnessed a resurgence in Johnson’s form, though it didn’t come without setbacks. Following a subdued performance in the North London derby, the 23-year-old faced backlash from fans, even deactivating his Instagram account due to criticism. However, Johnson has since responded emphatically, scoring a late winner against Coventry City in the League Cup and netting in five consecutive matches afterward. Currently, he has six goals from 13 appearances, showcasing his quality and resilience.
This run of form has seen Johnson’s valuation soar. According to the CIES Football Observatory, he is now valued at up to €82 million, which is approximately £68 million. This marks a remarkable increase from his initial transfer fee, making Johnson worth roughly £20 million more than Tottenham paid for him and nearly £10 million more than Maddison’s current valuation.
Comparing Maddison and Johnson’s Impact
Both Maddison and Johnson have shown their value to Tottenham, but they have brought different skills and attributes to the team. Maddison’s playmaking ability and creativity have given Spurs a much-needed edge in midfield, while Johnson’s speed and attacking flair have added a new dimension to the team’s forward line.
Maddison’s role as a central midfielder and primary creator is invaluable, especially as he is tasked with orchestrating Tottenham’s attacks. Despite his occasional inconsistency, Maddison remains a pivotal figure for Spurs, responsible for linking the midfield and attack. His presence has allowed other players, including Son Heung-min and Dominic Solanke, to thrive under Postecoglou’s system.
On the other hand, Johnson’s recent performances indicate he may soon become one of Tottenham’s most influential players. His finishing ability and work rate have transformed him from a rotational player to one of Postecoglou’s most reliable attacking options. Johnson’s £20 million increase in value reflects both his current contributions and his potential for further growth. At 23, he has plenty of time to develop further, and his recent displays suggest he could be a fixture in Tottenham’s lineup for years to come.
Postecoglou’s Vision for Tottenham
The rise in value and impact of players like Maddison and Johnson is a testament to Postecoglou’s forward-thinking approach. Since joining Tottenham, he has instilled an attacking mindset that has not only improved individual players but has also contributed to Tottenham’s broader goals. By focusing on a high-pressing, fast-paced style, Postecoglou has rejuvenated Spurs and turned the squad into a team capable of competing with the best in the Premier League.
In addition to Maddison and Johnson, Postecoglou’s influence has benefited other players, including young talents like Mikey Moore and seasoned players such as Son and Romero. This blend of youth and experience has created a balanced squad capable of both immediate success and long-term growth.
As of 2024, Brennan Johnson’s market value has surpassed that of James Maddison, reflecting his recent stellar performances and his potential as a cornerstone of Tottenham’s future. While Maddison remains a vital part of the team, Johnson’s current form suggests he could soon be one of Spurs’ most important players. With Postecoglou’s guidance, both players are likely to continue flourishing as Tottenham looks to cement its place among the Premier League’s top contenders.
Ultimately, Johnson’s trajectory is a testament to Postecoglou’s transformative impact on the club, both in terms of tactics and player development. While it may be too soon to draw definitive conclusions, the future certainly looks bright for Tottenham under Postecoglou’s stewardship, with players like Johnson and Maddison leading the way.