Maddison's Make-or-Break Season at Spurs
Can the former Leicester star rediscover his early-season form and lead Tottenham to Champions League glory?
As a new Premier League campaign kicks off, every player has a clean slate. With nine months ahead, they have the opportunity to etch their names into the annals of footballing history. For James Maddison, his journey begins under the spotlight at his former club, Leicester City, as Tottenham Hotspur travel to the King Power Stadium on Monday night.
Maddison's 2023-24 season was a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with exhilarating highs and crushing lows. His arrival at Tottenham last August was met with widespread enthusiasm. Maddison seamlessly integrated into Ange Postecoglou's system, establishing himself as a creative lynchpin, vice-captain, and the undisputed owner of the No. 10 shirt. His influence was undeniable, embodying the spirit of the new era at Spurs.
However, the honeymoon period was short-lived. A devastating deltoid ligament injury in November, sustained in only his 12th game, sidelined Maddison for almost three months. The injury was particularly disheartening, coming at a time when he was playing at the peak of his powers.
Maddison's rehabilitation was arduous, and he spent December in Dubai with the club's medical staff. He returned to the team in late January, with half a season remaining to recapture his scintillating early form and help Spurs clinch a Champions League spot.
Despite glimpses of brilliance, such as a clever assist for Cristian Romero in the 3-1 victory over Crystal Palace in March and a goal against Aston Villa, Maddison never fully recovered his peak performance. His absence weighed heavily on Tottenham, and the team faltered in the spring. After a series of disappointing results, Postecoglou made the bold decision to drop Maddison for the away trips to Chelsea and Liverpool.
Although he returned for the final three games, Spurs had lost valuable ground in the race for fourth place. Maddison's struggles also had a significant impact on his international career. He had finally broken into Gareth Southgate's England squad in 2023, starting in both the Euro 2024 qualifier against Ukraine and a friendly against Australia. However, despite making the initial 33-man squad for the European Championships, he was ultimately left out of the final 26, a blow that Maddison described as "devastating."
The contrast between Maddison's stellar start and disappointing finish could not have been more stark. In those early months, he appeared destined for greatness, effortlessly making the transition from Leicester to a "Big Six" club.
Maddison has long been regarded as one of the most talented English players of his generation. His potential was evident from his time at Coventry City, attracting interest from top clubs across Europe, including Barcelona. His initial performances for Tottenham suggested that he was finally fulfilling his potential.
However, after a season marred by injury and inconsistency, Maddison finds himself at a crossroads. He remains a key player for Spurs, but competition for places in midfield is intensifying. Dejan Kulusevski is becoming increasingly influential as a midfielder, and the arrival of 18-year-old Lucas Bergvall adds further competition. Tottenham are also rumoured to be interested in signing another central midfielder, having attempted to sign Jacob Ramsey in June.
Despite the challenges, there are reasons for optimism. Maddison's ability to dictate the tempo, find space, and deliver incisive passes to Son Heung-min is undeniable. The arrival of Dominic Solanke, a close friend of Maddison, could also prove to be a catalyst for success. Maddison's dead-ball expertise and goal-scoring threat from distance remain formidable assets.
The question for Maddison and Tottenham is how to transform the promise of their early-season partnership into a consistent and sustained force. This season represents a crucial opportunity for Maddison to rediscover his peak form and lead Tottenham to the heights they aspire to reach.
