From Kane to Richarlison: How Tottenham's Potential Rebuild Under Postecoglou Could Impact the Brazilian Superstar

Tottenham cannot expect life without Harry Kane to be easy, but they have a good replacement in Richarlison. The Brazilian is a better striker than most options available on the market. However, it may be challenging for supporters to accept this, considering Richarlison's struggles in his first season at the club after his £60m transfer from Everton. He only managed to score one goal in 27 Premier League appearances, which was disappointing.

However, it is not just Richarlison's second-half hat-trick against Lion City Sailors that provides evidence of his ability to excel. While concerns about his form and fitness have hindered him, it is important to note that Ange Postecoglou possesses a distinctly contrasting persona compared to Antonio Conte.

Image:

Richarlison celebrates after scoring for Spurs in their friendly against Lion City Sailors

Richarlison received only criticism and no rewards from the Italian manager.

Prior to Richarlison, players like Vincent Janssen, Fernando Llorente, and Carlos Vinicius faced difficulties finding their rhythm at Spurs while filling in for Kane. This position entails spending extended periods on the sidelines and when chances do arise, it often coincides with numerous changes in the team composition.

Kane's consistent presence in the starting lineup for the initial 29 games of the previous season left limited opportunities for others to take charge. When he was eventually given a rest during the FA Cup in January, Richarlison was already injured and his relationship with Conte had already deteriorated.

Richarlison recently disclosed the extent of Conte's irritation when he openly conveyed his frustrations in February. In an interview with a Brazilian podcast, he shared, "He reprimanded me to assert his authority. He scolded me for nearly two hours in front of everyone."

Although it may have been intended to reaffirm Conte's control, it was unlikely to elicit the best qualities from a multifaceted individual. Richarlison elicits mixed responses on the field - "I find it difficult to watch him," remarked Jamie Carragher - yet he garners admiration off the field.

During his upbringing in rural Brazil, he worked as an ice-cream vendor, car washer, café employee, and assistant to a bricklayer, gaining an early understanding of the significance of diligence that he has never forsaken. Consequently, he has emerged as a vocal supporter of education and various charitable causes.

That should resonate, rather than just a few rolls on the turf, after experiencing a foul. Postecoglou seems to have recognized this quickly. "He possesses, and I believe it is often overlooked, a truly remarkable work ethic," mentioned the Spurs coach.

Anticipate a comforting gesture, knowing that he not only requires Richarlison's top performance, but also recognizes that this player could be a perfect fit for the style of football that Postecoglou desires his Tottenham team to adopt. A hardworking striker is essential.

Richarlison is already being described in similar terms.

He consistently demonstrates dedication to the team, even though many of his contributions often go unnoticed. Whether it's his relentless pressing or his strategic runs, Richy consistently puts in the effort. Even when he doesn't receive the ball, he never fails to make those crucial runs, creating constant discomfort for defenders. As I've mentioned before, I truly admire Richy's qualities as a striker. His strong work ethic, ability to position himself effectively, and consistent presence in the right areas align perfectly with our team's style of play.

I have ample time to dedicate to him, and he is among the individuals whom I eagerly anticipate collaborating with. When observing a player from an external perspective, one imagines how they would integrate into the desired style of football. Without a doubt, I believe he possesses the potential to do so.

Postecoglou is not naive. He will prioritize retaining Kane due to his unique abilities and the challenges that arise in his absence. However, if the Australian were building his Spurs team from the beginning, he would opt for a striker of a different style.

Postecoglou's tactics favor a forward who excels at pressing aggressively and exerting a constant influence in the opposition's penalty area. He has acknowledged that Richarlison is capable of fulfilling various roles in the attacking line, and his showcased skillset during the World Cup substantiates this claim.

Image:

Richarlison's shot map during the 2022 World Cup for Brazil demonstrates his significant impact within the penalty area. Despite facing limited playing time at Spurs, he successfully fulfilled his role for the Brazilian team in Qatar. Scoring a total of twenty goals for his country, with half of them achieved in 2022, attests to his exceptional talent. He possesses the ability to excel within the confines of the goalposts.

Kane's ability to retreat into deeper positions is a crucial element that contributes to his greatness. For years now, he has effectively served as Tottenham's playmaker. In addition to his remarkable accomplishment of scoring 30 goals in the Premier League last season, no other striker excelled at precisely threading angled passes to his teammates.

Image:

Natural playmaker James Maddison's career heatmap with Leicester City

The acquisition of James Maddison from Leicester City could potentially alter the division of responsibilities within Postecoglou's team. Having Maddison, who excels in the playmaker role, was the motive behind his purchase and he will likely be the one seeking to occupy that position.

Will this create an opportunity for Richarlison to showcase his skills? The answer to that question remains uncertain. However, the player himself displays confidence. "I had numerous injuries last season, but now I feel revitalized. My physical condition is excellent. I believe this could be a fruitful season for me." With Postecoglou's guidance at Tottenham, his optimism may be justified.