Tottenham fans could soon witness Mauricio Pochettino return to N17 with Antonio Conte seemingly set for the exit door.
The Athletic believe both Spurs and the South American are interested in a reunion, as the Daily Mail claim that the Italian is unlikely to sign a new contract when his current terms expire this summer.
With that in mind, let’s take a look at what Pochettino’s first Tottenham XI could look like if he does return…
Tottenham XI if Pochettino replaces Conte
Well, if the Argentine does return to north London, Tottenham would most likely revert back to his preferred 4-2-3-1 formation, which means Conte’s wing-back system will be no more.
As you can see above, we have included one new signing – Marc Guéhi – in our predicted XI under Pochettino.
The Daily Mail believe those at Tottenham are huge admirers of the Crystal Palace No.6 and want to sign him this summer – with the south Londoners currently struggling, in additions to the likes of Eric Dier and Davinson Sanchez, he could be tempted away.
Next to the England international, we feel Ryan Sessegnon is someone Pochettino could coach to a higher level, like he did with Luke Shaw at Southampton.
Ahead of the backline, we have opted to drop Pierre-Emile Højbjerg, as the Denmark international is arguably not dynamic enough for a Pochettino side.
Instead – if he can stay fit – we feel Yves Bissouma would be a better fit, as the Malian is a press resistant midfielder who can carry the ball up the pitch, like Moussa Dembele was under the Argentine’s guidance.
The Belgian was a key cog for Pochettino, so a similar outlet in midfield is required – Oliver Skipp will partner Bissouma.
In attack, things are pretty much the same, although we think Richarlison will be deployed as a No.10 behind Harry Kane in a similar role to Dele Alli.
Like the England international was under Pochettino, the Brazilian is good at collecting the ball deep, but also thrives when attacking the box late to get on the end of crosses – it was a key feature of his game at Everton.
If a romantic return for Pochettino does occur, this is how we would expect Tottenham to shape up.
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