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Tottenham’s Midfield Revolution: Who Stays, Who Goes, and Where Jamie Donley Fits In

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Tottenham supporters have been treated to some dramatic moments this season, with Ange Postecoglou’s side scoring at least two goals in six of their last nine league matches (source: Premier League records). Even though injuries have left the squad shorthanded in defence and attack, Spurs have rarely had a shortage of midfield candidates. There’s a sense that this area of the pitch might be in for a shake-up soon, especially with the rumour mill linking one of their high-profile midfielders with a possible departure and a few of the younger talents ready to push for more minutes.

Early Season Excitement 

Many fancy the team at around 5/1 for a top-four finish next year, given the promise shown when everyone is healthy. This reflects the promising potential shown by the team when fully fit. Players like James Maddison, who’s consistently contributed with goals and assists, and Rodrigo Bentancur, now returning to form, provide the necessary creativity and stability in midfield. Alongside versatile options like Dejan Kulusevski and Yves Bissouma, Spurs’ squad has depth. If they can stay healthy and maintain their current trajectory, a top-four finish is very much within reach, especially with the midfield reshuffle underway.

Yves Bissouma

At one stage, Bissouma was almost an automatic pick for Postecoglou. Lately, though, he’s found himself slipping down the pecking order behind the likes of Lucas Bergvall. His contract is winding down, and the sense around the club is that Tottenham might look to move him on so they can invest in a more naturally defensive No.6. 

Likely outcome: Summer exit.

James Maddison

Even if Maddison hasn’t been an every-match fixture, he’s still chipped in with ten goals and seven assists in all competitions. His clever passing and set-piece know-how add an extra dimension whenever Spurs need inspiration. Postecoglou seems to value creative talents who can thread the ball through tight spaces, which suits Maddison well. 

Likely outcome: Stays.

Archie Gray

Gray has spent much of the season filling gaps at full-back or centre-back, yet those glimpses haven’t hidden his qualities in midfield. He’s young, versatile, and blessed with a bright future. He’ll hope the club’s injury issues ease so he can finally get minutes in his preferred role. 

Likely outcome: Stays.

Lucas Bergvall

Bergvall arrived with expectations, and he’s lived up to them by gradually becoming a central figure in Postecoglou’s starting eleven. 

Likely outcome: Stays.

Dejan Kulusevski

he Swede is capable of driving forward or switching the play from one flank to another. He might prefer a permanent central role, though his adaptability means he’ll continue to feature wherever Postecoglou needs him most. 

Likely outcome: Stays.

Pape Matar Sarr

Sarr’s season has featured spells of good form and times spent on the bench. When he’s been in the lineup, he’s shown that he can win tackles and transition quickly. He still has plenty of growth in him, which makes him an attractive option for Tottenham’s future plans. 

Likely outcome: Stays.

Rodrigo Bentancur

The Uruguayan is starting to rediscover his usual standard, breaking up play and pushing forward when opportunities arise. 

Likely outcome: New contract.

Alfie Devine

Devine has been out on loan with Westerlo in Belgium, adding to his experience. Postecoglou reportedly likes his energy and willingness to carry the ball, but the club’s midfield is crowded. If minutes aren’t likely, another loan might be the smartest route for him to keep developing. Likely outcome: Loan if not in first-team plans.

Jamie Donley

Donley has shone at Leyton Orient, bouncing back from a tough start to become integral to their playoff chase. If he isn’t earmarked for a significant role in Tottenham’s squad, another loan—possibly to a Championship club—might boost his progress. The next step up in competition is logical if Postecoglou can’t guarantee him a good amount of playing time. 

Likely outcome: Loan if not in first-team plans.

George Abbott

While Donley has grabbed a share of the headlines, Abbott’s success at Notts County has been equally impressive. He’s got five goals and five assists from midfield in 30 matches and is a big reason the Magpies have pushed for promotion. Tottenham will probably look to place him in a tougher league next season to see how far he can go. 

Likely outcome: Another loan.

Matthew Craig

Craig did well during a previous loan spell at Doncaster Rovers, but his time at Barnsley faded late on. He’s now trying to find his feet at Mansfield Town in League One. Unless he somehow forces his way into Postecoglou’s thinking with a brilliant pre-season, another temporary move may be on the cards. 

Likely outcome: Another loan.

Regardless of who stays or goes, the coming season promises plenty of talking points. Spurs supporters, neutrals, and those who enjoy a friendly wager will all have their own take on how well this reshuffle pans out. After all, in football, fresh faces and big decisions always keep the excitement levels high.

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